Bruno Lage's Benfica topped the group after defeating Bayern Munich
Last updated: June 25, 2025 | 15:47
2 MIN READ
Chelsea's forward Liam Delap (right) celebrates after scoring his team's second goal with teammate French striker Christopher Nkunku during the Fifa Club World Cup 2025 Group D football match against Tunis' Esperance Sportive de Tunis at the Lincoln Financial Field stadium in Philadelphia on June 24, 2025.
AFP
Dubai: Chelsea have comfortably defeated Tunisian side Esperance Tunis 3-0 to set up a clash against Benfica in the Club World Cup Round of 16.
The Blues finished second in the group behind Brazilian side Flamengo, and this proved a blessing in disguise as they are on the better side of the bracket for now. Bruno Lage's Benfica, who topped their group after defeating Bayern Munich, are a brilliant footballing side where veteran Angel Di Maria is having a stellar tournament.
If the Blues somehow manage to progress against them, the winner of the all-Brazilian clash between Botafogo and Palmeiras will be waiting in the quarter-finals. Had the London side finished top of their group, they would have been battling Bayern in the round of 16. Now Flamengo, who defeated Chelsea will meet the German giants in the round of 16.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca made eight changes after emphasising the importance of rotation to manage the demanding schedule. As expected, the game plan from the Tunisian champions was clear: sit back and counter-attack when opportunities arose.
In the first half, the Blues controlled possession but were passive in their approach. The opener came from an Enzo Fernández free kick, with center-back Tosin heading it home just before halftime. The second half was largely about game management from the Premier League side. Nkunku, whose future may lie elsewhere, performed well in the number 10 role behind the striker. Meanwhile, new signing Delap scored his first goal for the club—his turn and ability to create separation were brilliant elements of that finish.
Chelsea's academy products had a strong outing. Acheampong was solid in the right-back position, and Tyrique George found the net from the bench with assistance from the opposing keeper, who fumbled the ball. Fans were delighted to see Andrey Santos receive some playing time as well.
There appears to be a promising pathway forward for Chelsea, but whether they can capitalize on it remains to be seen.
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