Chelsea defeated Benfica 4-1 in an extraordinary FIFA Club World Cup last-16 match that lasted over four hours, including a nearly two-hour delay for severe thunderstorms.
Three late extra-time goals secured Chelsea’s victory after the match was dramatically impacted by the weather and a Benfica red card.
Reece James had given Chelsea the lead in the 64th minute, but a lengthy storm delay saw play halted.
Upon resumption, Benfica’s Ángel Di María equalized with a penalty in the 94th minute. Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni was then sent off early in extra time, paving the way for Chelsea to capitalize.
Christopher Nkunku (108′), Pedro Neto (114′), and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (117′) all scored in the second half of extra time, sealing Chelsea’s spot in the quarter-finals against Brazil’s Palmeiras.
The chaotic match, which also saw injuries and suspensions for Chelsea players, highlighted concerns about hosting the tournament in regions prone to extreme weather, with manager Enzo Maresca reportedly questioning the logistics.
