Frank Lampard ended the most difficult week of his life with a moment of personal triumph last night that brought tears to his eyes and joy to his heart, scoring from the penalty spot in extra time at Stamford Bridge to help to send Chelsea through to the Champions League final for the first time in their history.

Didier Drogba scored twice as Chelsea won 3-2 on the night, 4-3 on aggregate, to secure an all-English final against Manchester United in Moscow on May 21, but even the romance of Roman Abramovich’s return to Russia paled into insignificance when set alongside the contribution of Lampard. The England midfield player was mobbed by his teammates after appearing calmness personified when putting Chelsea 2-1 ahead in the 98th minute, before casting a long look to the heavens and offering a series of kisses to his father, Frank Lampard Sr, in the East Stand.

In any circumstances, Lampard’s willingness to grab the ball from Michael Ballack, whose penalty had defeated United on Saturday, was extraordinary, but, given such a show of bravery came only six days after the death of his mother, whose funeral takes place tomorrow, it was even more remarkable. “Frank’s fantastic. What a character to block out what’s been a terrible week for him, his family and those close to him,” John Terry, the Chelsea captain, said. “It’s been very difficult for him. I’m sure he’ll dedicate that goal to his mum.”

Avram Grant also offered praise to a player he has become closer to in recent weeks, thanking him for scoring a goal that could save his job. That the Israeli’s future as Chelsea first-team coach remains uncertain says more about his employer than his suitability for the job, which can no longer be seriously questioned after taking Chelsea into uncharted territory in Europe and resuscitating their title challenge.

“Frank’s a brave man and was very close to his mum,” Grant said. “With what happened to him over the last week, it was not an easy decision to play, but we’re happy he took it.”

Grant was less comfortable discussing himself, although he also put Chelsea’s triumph into perspective by confirming that he will be at Auschwitz today giving a speech to commemorate Holocaust Memorial Day. “It’s not about me, but I’m very pleased to get to the final after losing three semi-finals,” he said. “We need to go to the Champions League final and fight for the title. Then the fans will be happy.”

The Champions League’s first all-English final should be a spicy affair as the row between Chelsea and United continues to simmer after Saturday’s postmatch brawl. Terry could not resist stirring the pot, taking the opportunity to thank all the groundstaff for their contribution this season, while Abramovich is planning to fly all 250 of the club’s employees to the final, which will set the owner back more than £250,000.

“Over the years we’ve been very close and not managed to do it, so this is very special,” Terry said. “It’s not sunk in yet. Playing United makes it even more special. We’re at the top of our game, but so are they. We beat them at the weekend and will try and do it again.”