Chelsea Defeat Benfica 4–1 After Extra Time to Reach Club World Cup Quarter-Finals

Chelsea secured a dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over Benfica in the Club World Cup Round of 16 at the Bank of America Stadium. The match, which stretched to nearly four and a half hours due to a lengthy weather delay, saw the Blues advance to the quarter-finals where they will face Palmeiras on July 4 in Philadelphia.

Reece James opened the scoring in the 64th minute with a powerful free-kick. However, just before the final whistle, a VAR-reviewed handball by Malo Gusto awarded Benfica a penalty, which Ángel Di María converted to force extra time.

In the added period, Benfica were reduced to ten men following a red card for Gianluca Prestianni. Chelsea took full advantage, with Christopher Nkunku restoring their lead in the 108th minute, Pedro Neto extending it in the 114th, and Kiernan Dewsbury‑Hall sealing the win in the 117th.

Manager Enzo Maresca made notable tactical adjustments, including fielding Cole Palmer on the left and using a midfield trio of Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, and Romeo Lavia—his first time doing so since the season opener.

Despite the unusual circumstances, Chelsea’s performance was marked by resilience and standout displays from key players like James, Nkunku, and Levi Colwill.