In a rollercoaster at the Bank of America Stadium, Chelsea edged Benfica 4‑1 after extra time in a breathtaking Round of 16 match at the FIFA Club World Cup — securing a quarter‑final clash with Palmeiras. Here’s how the drama unfolded:
Weather Mayhem & Long Haul
With just four minutes remaining and Chelsea leading 1‑0, a lightning storm triggered a nearly two-hour delay, evacuating stadium fans and players alike. The prolonged interruption shattered momentum. Manager Enzo Maresca was furious, condemning the stoppages as “a joke” and warning the frequent delays could undermine football’s spirit — and even the credibility of hosting next year’s World Cup in North America.
🎯 Key Moments & Turning Point
- 64′ Reece James produced a stunning free-kick to break the deadlock — a masterpiece curled from a tight angle.
- 90+5′ Ángel Di María converted a stoppage-time penalty after a VAR-reviewed handball by Malo Gusto, sending the match into extra time.
- 92′ Benfica were reduced to 10 men as Gianluca Prestianni received a second yellow card.
🔥 Extra Time Blitz
Chelsea unleashed havoc as Benfica battled fatigue:
- 108′ – Christopher Nkunku pounced on a rebound to score the go-ahead goal.
- 114′ – Pedro Neto extended the lead with a composed finish.
- 117′ – Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall sealed the win with a sharp strike, finishing a move set up by Cole Palmer.
🧠 Maresca’s Take & Team Kudos
Despite condemning the weather chaos, Maresca praised his squad’s mental strength, highlighting their ability to adapt and maintain focus across this four-hour, 38-minute epic.
He said:
“Very proud… it started a completely different game. When you are inside for more than one hour… it’s not easy, but… we deserved [this].”
On the match delay,
“For me personally, it’s not football… I think it’s a joke. It’s not football… If you suspend seven or eight games, that means that probably this is not the right place to do this competition.”
What’s Next
Chelsea will now face Palmeiras in Philadelphia on Friday, riding the momentum of this dramatic win. With a blend of resilience, tactical control, and finishing quality, the Blues are sending a clear message: they’re contenders on the global stage.
This wasn’t just a football match — it was a test of character. From Reece James’s brilliance to Nkunku’s clutch finish, Chelsea passed every challenge. Now, all eyes turn to their next step on the road to Club World Cup glory.
–Deeprows Sports
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