Despite seeing the majority of possession and managing seven shots on target, it was a 78th minute Moises Caicedo goal that secured all three points against the Cypriot First Division club.

It was a deeply unconvincing display from Chelsea, with the mood one of relief at the final whistle.

But the result means that Liam Rosenior's side will have a chance to secure direct qualification into the Champions League last 16 when they visit Napoli in their final game next week. The Italian champions need to win to avoid elimination.

Pafos, meanwhile, are 30th in the standings and could make it in the playoffs if they beat Slavia Prague next week.

Chelsea did display some enterprising football in the first half as Enzo Fernández had a goal disallowed before Reece James fired just wide.

Pafos came close to an opener though when Jaja hit the woodwork but it was substitute Estevao who probably was closest a goal, with his rasping volley, before Caicedo headed home from close range from a half-cleared Neto corner.

The result ensured that Chelsea avoided a first goalless draw in Europe in 54 games.

Speaking after the game, Rosenior told TNT Sports: "I was delighted for Moises Caicedo to get the goal and the win we deserved. Moi is an outstanding player, a world-class midfield player. We are always a threat on set plays. He is a top player.

"When you play against a low block, your pivot players play higher up and hopefully, he can continue chipping in with goals.

"Of course, you want to score more goals, but the reality is we are in the top eight.

"We have to keep focusing on the job, and that is to win as many games as possible. I can't affect how people judge me, but I am very excited for the future of this club.

"I would like the fans to be with us and with me, but to do that, I need to earn that."

On Cole Palmer's absence, the Blues boss added: "Why no Cole Palmer? "Precautionary, he felt something really, really minor against Brentford. I don't want to risk any players at this stage, especially of Cole's quality."

Caicedo said: "It was a very important goal for the team, so I'm so happy because the game was so tough. The team was good.

"We got three points and now we're going to enjoy, and we're going to keep going because we have one more game to go."

“Tonight was the night, so I'm so happy.”

Nedbank Cup Preview: Orlando Pirates ready to lock horns with Sekhukhune United