Andres Iniesta's stunning late leveller sent Barcelona through to the final in Rome to face Manchester United.

Michael Essien's opener looked like giving Guus Hiddink's men a path to the final with his opener in the ninth minute, a goal of sheer beauty.

Frank Lampard's cross was blocked by Yaya Toure and fell for the Ghana midfielder 25 yards out. Essien barely checked his stride before unleashing a volley that crashed in off Victor Valdes' crossbar.

The Blues had big penalty appeals turned down in search of the second goal that would have settled the last-four tie

The Spanish giants had Eric Abidal sent off when he was judged to have clipped his France team-mate Anelka. Abidal protested his innocence, with replays supporting the Barca defender.

Despite being down to 10 men, Barcelona stayed within touching distance of Chelsea, before Iniesta found the top corner with two minutes of the four in stoppage time played.

Messi seized on a mis-kick by Essien then fed his team-mate, who found the top corner from the edge of the area.

There was still time for the referee to turn down a penalty appeal when Eto'o was struck on the arm.

Barcelona will now face the Barclays Premier League's Manchester United on Wednesday 27th May.