Chelsea held by Juventus, Messi spares Barca blushes

PARIS (AFP) - Chelsea's Champions League title defence began with a 2-2 draw at home to Juventus on Tuesday, while Lionel Messi came to Barcelona's rescue against Spartak Moscow and a sloppy Manchester United edged Galatasaray 1-0.

Bidding to become the first team to retain the Champions League trophy, Chelsea went 2-0 up through a brace from Brazilian starlet Oscar at Stamford Bridge but had to make do with a point after Juventus fought back to draw their Group E opener.

Oscar, 21, was making his first start since a 25 million pounds (S$50 million) move from Internacional and he announced his arrival in style.

In the 31st minute, he beat Gianluigi Buffon with a deflected effort from 25 yards and two minutes later he doubled Chelsea's lead with a stunning goal, sweeping a glorious shot into the top-right corner from outside the box.