Cole Palmer played a key role in Chelsea’s thrilling Club World Cup win against Benfica that wasn’t short of controversy.
It looked as if Reece James‘ goal was going to be enough for them to book their place in the quarter-final of the competition before the players were forced off due to adverse weather in the area.
What followed was a two hour delay, with Cole Palmer’s bemused reaction summing up everyone’s feelings towards the game being suspended with just four minutes to go.
The England international was started on the left of attack against Benfica, and played a key role in extra time as the Blues muscled their way to victory.
Cole Palmer vs Benfica Total
Minutes 120
Assists 1
Shots 6
Chances Created 3
Duels Won 4
Passes Into Final Third 7
Enzo Maresca celebrates after Benfica SL v Chelsea FC: Round Of 16 - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca makes John Obi Mikel look silly with Cole Palmer decision
Before the game though, former midfielder John Obi Mikel, who has not been shy to be critical of Chelsea in the past, questioned the manager for starting the Englishman in that role.
He told DAZN: “What’s the manager thinking? Cole Palmer should not be playing out wide. When you play Cole Palmer out wide he gets lost in the game. It’s like playing Bellingham out of position, you don’t get the best out of him. Palmer is our number ten!”
Palmer’s link up with Marc Cucurella was a real strength for Chelsea against Benfica, and was perhaps the area of the pitch they were most dominant.
The decision from the manager allowed Enzo Fernandez to make an impact in the attacking third in the middle, while Neto was able to play in his preferred role of right-wing. It is fair to say this absolutely paid off.
Cole Palmer celebrates with supporters after Benfica SL v Chelsea FC: Round Of 16 - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Steph Chambers – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
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Mikel’s regular criticism of Chelsea
After playing in one of the most successful Chelsea sides in history, Mikel has high standards when it comes to what’s going on at Stamford Bridge.
Mikel was scathing of Nicolas Jackson after he was sent off in their defeat to Flamengo, and has been an advocate for the side signing Victor Osimhen.
John Obi Mikel participates in Day 1 - Champions Festival - UEFA Champions League Final 2025
Photo by Pau Barrena – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
The Nigerian’s wage demands proved too much for Chelsea to be interested in the deal, and they are looking forward to a future with Liam Delap as the number nine.
He could be under more competition for his place in the side too, with the Blues strongly linked with a move for Joao Pedro.