UEFA Champions League, Group E: Schalke Leapfrog Basel Into Knockout Stage; Chelsea Win Group After Dull Win Over Steaua

Two games were played in Group E on Wednesday as UEFA Champions League group-stage action concluded.

At Gelsenkirchen, Germany:

Julian Draxler (50') and Joel Matip (57') each scored a second-half goal as Schalke defeated visiting FC Basel 2-0 to leapfrog their Swiss guests and advance to the Champions League's knockout stage.  Here, we see Royal Blues coach Jens Keller celebrating with Adam Szalai and the aforementioned Julian Draxler.

Reuters photo

At London:

Demba Ba's early goal in the 10th minute (shown here) held up as Chelsea clinched top spot in Group E with a 1-0 home win over Steaua Bucharest.

Photo from ESPN FC website

FINAL GROUP E STANDINGS:

1. Chelsea (GP: 6; GD: +9; PTS: 12)
2. FC Schalke 04 (GP: 6; GD: 0; PTS: 10)
3. FC Basel (GP: 6; GD: -1; PTS: 8)
4. Steaua Bucharest (GP: 6; GD: -8; PTS: 3)

Chelsea and FC Schalke advanced to the Champions League's knockout stage while FC Basel qualified for the knockout stage of the Europa League.