Chelsea hold Barcelona

Chelsea of England produced a spirited defensive display to stop hosts Barcelona from scoring in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final in the Camp Nou in Spain yesterday.



The Spanish leaders were held scoreless for the first time since a league defeat on the opening weekend of the season.



It was the first shutout on home soil since Manchester United drew nil-all at the same stage of the competition last year.



Both goalkeepers made key saves, with Victor Valdes getting his hands up quickly to stop Didier Drogba's shot following a Barcelona defensive lapse in the 39th minute.



Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech was busier, however, diving to keep Samuel Eto'o's shot out in the 70th after the Barcelona striker had shaken off Alex to get a clear chance from close-range.



It was the fourth time in five seasons that the two clubs have met in Europe's top club competition.



The second leg will take place next Wednesday at Stamford Bridge in England.