Chelsea vs Benfica Club World Cup 2025: Blues Power Through to Quarterfinals After Dramatic Weather Delay
Chelsea vs Benfica Club World Cup 2025 delivered high drama as Chelsea secured a 4-1 victory in extra time, overcoming 10-man Benfica and a nearly two-hour weather delay in Charlotte. With this result, the Premier League side advanced to the quarterfinals of the FIFA Club World Cup, where they will face Brazilian giants Palmeiras.
⚡ Weather Delay Adds Chaos to Tense Clash
Initially, the game was progressing in Chelsea’s favor. Reece James broke the deadlock in the 64th minute with a spectacular free kick, showcasing his set-piece brilliance.
However, just five minutes before full time, a lightning storm forced officials to halt the match. Consequently, the teams were removed from the field, and spectators were relocated to safety. The delay lasted nearly two hours.
“The performance for me was top until 85 minutes when they stopped the game. After more than an hour inside, it was a different game,” said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.
🟥 Red Card and Late Penalty Drama
Once the teams returned to the pitch, the match quickly escalated. Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica received a second yellow card just minutes after play resumed, leaving his side down to ten men.
Nevertheless, Benfica refused to back down. In stoppage time, Ángel Di María scored from the penalty spot after Malo Gusto was penalized for a handball. Therefore, the match went into extra time with both sides tied 1-1.
⚽ Extra Time: Chelsea’s Class Shines Through
In extra time, Chelsea’s superior squad depth and tactical adjustments made the difference. Three minutes into the second period, Christopher Nkunku restored the lead with a clever lofted finish. Meanwhile, Benfica’s defense began to unravel.
Six minutes later, Pedro Neto extended Chelsea’s advantage after receiving a well-timed through ball from Moisés Caicedo. In addition, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall sealed the win in the 117th minute, capitalizing on Cole Palmer’s vision and precise pass. Chelsea vs Benfica Club World Cup 2025.
🔜 What’s Next for Chelsea?
With this win, Chelsea move confidently into the Club World Cup quarterfinals, where they will face Palmeiras, the champions of South America. The match is set to take place on Friday and promises to be another exciting encounter.
📌 Key Takeaways
- Final Score: Chelsea 4-1 Benfica (AET)
- Weather Delay: Nearly 2 hours due to lightning
- Chelsea Scorers: James, Nkunku, Neto, Dewsbury-Hall
- Benfica Scorer: Di María (PEN)
- Red Card: Gianluca Prestianni (Benfica)
- Next Match: Chelsea vs Palmeiras in quarterfinal
✅ Conclusion
Ultimately, Chelsea’s 4-1 win over Benfica showcased their ability to overcome adversity, both on and off the pitch. Despite a chaotic weather delay and a resilient Benfica side, the Blues proved their quality in extra time. Now, they set their sights on Palmeiras in their pursuit of global success.
