Chelsea advanced to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals with a 4-1 victory over Benfica in extra time on Sunday at Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte.
After a goalless first half, Reece James scored for Chelsea in the 64th minute. The match was halted in the 85th minute due to a lightning storm and resumed two hours later. Benfica equalized with an Angel Di Maria penalty in the 90+5th minute, forcing extra time.
Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni received a red card early in extra time, allowing Chelsea to dominate. Christopher Nkunku (108’), Pedro Neto (114’), and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (117’) secured the win.
Chelsea will face Brazilian side Palmeiras in the quarterfinals.
