Sun Jun 29 01:06:07 UTC 2025: **Chelsea Survive Lightning, Benfica, and VAR to Reach Club World Cup Quarterfinals**
**Charlotte, NC** – In a dramatic match marred by a lengthy weather delay, Chelsea defeated Benfica 4-1 after extra time on Saturday to secure their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. They became the first English team to reach the quarterfinal stage of the competition.
Reece James opened the scoring for Chelsea in the 64th minute with a stunning free kick from a tight angle. However, Benfica’s Angel Di Maria equalized from the penalty spot in the fifth minute of stoppage time following a controversial handball decision against Malo Gusto.
The game was then suspended for nearly two hours due to a nearby lightning storm, causing frustration among Chelsea players who were close to victory. Upon resumption, Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall scored in extra time to secure Chelsea’s victory, setting up a quarterfinal clash with Palmeiras.
Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni was sent off early in extra time for a second bookable offence, making Chelsea’s task easier.
The weather delay and high temperatures raised concerns about the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also be held in the United States.
Earlier in the day, Palmeiras defeated Botafogo 1-0 after extra time, thanks to a goal from Paulinho, setting up their quarterfinal match with Chelsea. Palmeiras ended the match with 10 men after defender Gustavo Gomez was sent off.
First Piper 