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Chelsea eliminate Benfica in a stormy thriller to reach Club World Cup quarterfinals
A surreal night in Charlotte
In one of the most dramatic matches of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Chelsea defeated Benfica 4-1 after extra time in a game suspended for nearly two hours due to a lightning storm. Played at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, the match lasted 4 hours and 38 minutes, making it one of the longest in tournament history.
Di María’s farewell spark
With Chelsea leading 1-0 thanks to a Reece James free-kick in the 64th minute, the match was halted in the 86th due to nearby lightning. When play resumed, Ángel Di María equalized from the penalty spot in the 94th minute—his final goal in European football. The Argentine had drawn the handball that led to the VAR-reviewed penalty and calmly converted it down the middle.
Extra time dominance
Despite being reduced to 10 men after Gianluca Prestianni was sent off, Benfica held on until extra time, when Chelsea’s depth and energy took over. Christopher Nkunku (107’), Pedro Neto (113’), and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (116’) sealed the win for the Blues, who now advance to face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals.
Chelsea’s early control
From the opening whistle, Chelsea dominated possession and created the better chances. Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella were constant threats, while Benfica relied on goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin and defender António Silva to stay afloat. The English side’s tactical flexibility under Enzo Maresca was evident throughout.
A legend’s final act
Di María’s goal was more than just an equalizer—it was a poetic farewell to European football. The 37-year-old, who will return to Rosario Central, delivered a performance full of class and leadership, leaving a lasting impression on the tournament.