Chelsea delivered a performance on the global stage as they powered past Benfica 4-1 after extra time in a dramatic Club World Cup quarter-final that was delayed by severe weather. The match, played under difficult conditions, saw a two-hour suspension due to lightning and heavy rain, but once the game resumed, Chelsea imposed themselves with authority, composure, and clinical execution.
The encounter began evenly, with both teams showing early intent before the match was brought to an abrupt halt. Thunderstorms in the area forced the referee to pause play just after the 17-minute mark, and players were taken off the pitch for safety reasons. The delay lasted nearly two hours, disrupting rhythm and momentum for both sides.
However, Chelsea adapted better after the restart. With a sharper edge and clearer structure, the giants began to dictate the flow of the game. Benfica stayed compact and disciplined for much of regular time, managing to keep the scoreline level and forcing extra time after a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes. But in the additional 30 minutes, the Portuguese side could no longer hold off the blue wave.
Chelsea exploded into life in extra time, scoring three goals that stunned Benfica. The first of the trio came from a sweeping move that sliced through the tired Benfica defence, resulting to a composed finish. That was quickly followed by a devastating counter-attack led by Chelsea’s pacey substitutes, who exposed the high defensive line and converted systematically. The final goal came from a set-piece situation, as a well-delivered cross caused chaos in the box and was eventually smashed home on the rebound.
Key performers for Chelsea included their central striker, who netted a brace and consistently troubled Benfica’s backline with intelligent movement and physicality. The midfield trio controlled possession and transitioned swiftly between defence and attack, while the full-backs provided both defensive solidity and width going forward. Chelsea’s goalkeeper made several vital stops in the first half to deny Benfica a lead, and his command of the area gave the defence confidence.
Statistically, Chelsea outshone their opponents across the board, with more possession, more shots on target, higher pass completion, and a far greater level of attacking threat in the final third.
The result sends Chelsea into the semi-finals of the Club World Cup, where they’ll meet a yet-to-be-determined opponent.
