Chelsea Advances to Club World Cup Quarters After Dramatic Match

In a gripping contest that stretched over four hours, Chelsea FC triumphed over Benfica with a 4-1 victory in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Club World Cup, held at the Bank of America Stadium on June 29, 2025. The match, which faced significant interruptions due to inclement weather, showcased remarkable resilience from the Chelsea squad, particularly following a lengthy weather delay that lasted nearly two hours due to a thunderstorm. This delay forced both teams to retreat to their dressing rooms, complicating an already intense match.

Chelsea, led by manager Enzo Maresca, entered the game as the favorite and took an early lead with a stunning free-kick from captain Reece James in the 15th minute. However, the match took a turn when Benfica equalized through a contentious penalty awarded after a VAR review. The decision came following a handball call against Chelsea's Malo Gusto, which was met with considerable controversy. Angel Di Maria converted the penalty, leveling the score at 1-1 just before the end of regular time.

The match was further complicated when Benfica was reduced to ten men after Gianluca Prestiani received a second yellow card for a foul on Chelsea's Levi Colwill. This provided Chelsea with a crucial advantage, which they exploited in extra time. The decisive moment came in the 108th minute when Christopher Nkunku, who had been on the fringes of the team, scored the go-ahead goal, followed by additional strikes from Pedro Neto and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, sealing the victory for Chelsea.

Despite the chaotic nature of the match, Chelsea’s ability to adapt proved crucial. "We showed great character to come back after the weather delay and the penalty situation," said Maresca in a post-match interview. "This win will give us momentum as we prepare to face Palmeiras in the quarter-finals."

The next challenge for Chelsea will be against Palmeiras, a match that promises to test their mettle further. Chelsea's performance in this match has drawn praise from analysts, who noted the team's depth and tactical flexibility. Dr. Emma Thompson, a sports analyst at the University of Cambridge, remarked, "Chelsea displayed not only skill but also strategic adaptability, which is essential in tournament play."

As they look ahead, Chelsea will need to address the suspension of Moises Caicedo, who received a yellow card for dissent earlier in the match. His absence may impact the team's midfield dynamics against Palmeiras, a team known for its robust defensive structure. However, Chelsea has demonstrated a growing resilience, which will be crucial as they continue their pursuit of the Club World Cup title. The victory against Benfica not only secures their place in the quarter-finals but also reinforces the confidence within the squad as they navigate the challenging landscape of international club football.