MOSCOW: CSKA Moscow earned their first home win of the Champions League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Benfica on Wednesday that strengthens their push to reach the knockout stages while shattering the Portuguese side?s chances.

Georgi Schennikov put CSKA ahead after 13 minutes with a left-footed finish, having been assisted by Bibras Natcho?s short through ball that shredded Benfica?s backline.

The visitors? troubles worsened after the interval as defender Jardel then clumsily deflected a cross by CSKA?s Vitinho into the back of his own net after 56 minutes.

CSKA?s win puts them into second place in Group A on nine points behind leaders Manchester United, who take on Basel later on Wednesday.

Yet the result ensured that former European champions Benfica, still without a point, are now certain to finish last.