Chelsea advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals after a dramatic 4-1 victory over Benfica, a match extended by a near two-hour weather delay and decided in extra time. Christopher Nkunku's crucial goal in the 108th minute broke a 1-1 tie, paving the way for Chelsea's ultimate triumph in a game that lasted nearly five hours from start to finish.
The match, held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, was a rollercoaster of emotions. Reece James's stunning free-kick in the 64th minute had given Chelsea the lead, only for Angel Di Maria to equalize with a penalty in the 95th minute after a handball decision against Malo Gusto. The handball was controversial, as Gusto was in mid-air and facing away from the ball when it brushed his hand.
With the score tied at 1-1 and only four minutes of regulation time remaining, the game was temporarily suspended due to a severe lightning storm. Players and fans were forced to seek shelter as the delay stretched for nearly two hours. The unusually high temperatures also contributed to the uncomfortable conditions.
Upon resumption, Benfica capitalized quickly, with Di Maria converting the contentious penalty. However, their momentum was short-lived. Early in extra time, Gianluca Prestianni received a second yellow card, reducing Benfica to 10 men. Chelsea seized the advantage, launching a relentless attack.
Nkunku's decisive goal came after a shot from Moisés Caicedo was saved, with Nkunku reacting quickest to bury the rebound. Pedro Neto and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall then added further goals, sealing Chelsea's place in the quarter-finals with a final score of 4-1. The three goals in extra time came in a span of nine minutes. Caicedo was named player of the match.
Chelsea's victory was hard-earned, marking their first win in Charlotte in over a decade. They had previously lost to Real Madrid and Charlotte FC in the same stadium. The win propels them into a quarter-final clash against Palmeiras in Philadelphia. Palmeiras also secured their spot with an extra-time victory, defeating Botafogo 1-0. The match is scheduled for Friday, July 4, at 9 p.m. ET.
The game was filled with drama, including a penalty scored nearly four hours after kickoff, VAR reviews, and the extended weather delay.
