Last gasp goal puts Barca in final

By Mike Collett

LONDON (Reuters) - Barcelona snatched a place in the Champions League final on Wednesday when a last-gasp goal from Andres Iniesta earned them a 1-1 draw with Chelsea and victory on away goals.

Barcelona, trailing to a stunning early strike from Michael Essien and down to 10 men from the 65th minute, broke Chelsea hearts when Iniesta struck in the third minute of stoppage time with his team's first shot on target.

The reversal of fortunes at the very end of the semi-final second leg means Barca will play holders Manchester United in the Rome final on May 27.

"There are no words to describe how happy the team are," Barcelona centre-back Gerard Pique, a former Manchester United player, told Sky Sports.

Barcelona's Eric Abidal, the man sent off, will miss the final, as will Daniel Alves, who was booked on his birthday and will also be suspended.

However skipper Carles Puyol, who was suspended for this game, will be eligible for the final when United will bid to become the first team in the Champions League era to retain the European Cup.

Chelsea had been on their way to a second successive final against United, and a chance to avenge their defeat on penalties in Moscow, thanks to Essien's volley in the ninth minute.

It was so nearly enough and had the referee given one of several strong shouts for penalties they might have had the game wrapped up well before the late drama.