Chelsea are looking to book their place in the Club World Cup quarter-finals when they take on fellow European side Benfica in the Round of 16.
The Blues progressed in second place in their group, avoiding a tie against Bayern Munich in the process.
A win could set up a showdown with future star Estevao Willian’s Palmeiras, should they win their fixture against Botafogo.
Enzo Maresca will be taking things one game at a time though, and will no doubt recall some of the big players who were handed a break in the 3-0 win over ES Tunis.
The Chelsea Chronicle have predicted the strong side the Italian will select for what will hopefully not be their final game of the tournament in the United States.
Enzo Maresca looks on following Esperance de Tunis v Chelsea FC: Group D - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea predicted XI vs Benfica
Robert Sanchez will return between the sticks, despite fresh interest from the club in signing a new goalkeeper. Marc-Andre ter Stegen has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge.
Club captain Reece James will lead the Blues out for their Round of 16 tie, with him no doubt eager to lift his second trophy of the campaign.
Tosin Adarabioyo will retain his place in the side after his player of the match performance which left good friend Cole Palmer applauding after the final whistle.
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He will be joined at the back by Levi Colwill, despite the improving displays of Benoit Badiashile of late.
At left-back, Marc Cucurella will return to the side after a much-needed rest against ES Tunis. Having no alternative to play at left-back has seen him endure a gruelling season.
Another player who has been tested to the limits is Moises Caicedo, and he will start in the heart of midfield for the Blues.
He will be joined by familiar face Enzo Fernandez, who will be looking to build on his goal and two assists recorded in the group stages.
Cole Palmer looks on during Chelsea FC v Los Angeles Football Club: Group D - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Ahead of those two, Cole Palmer will operate in the central attacking role, with him looking to break his personal duck of finding the net in open play.
The right-hand-side will see Pedro Neto back in the side. He has enjoyed an excellent campaign so far, scoring three goals in the two games he featured in.
On the opposite wing, Noni Madueke will again feature on his less-preferred side, holding off a much-improved Christopher Nkunku for a start.
Up front, Nicolas Jackson’s suspension will see Liam Delap given the chance to build on his tremendous first goal for the club.