Benfica’s Florentino Luís talks about the clash against Chelsea in the Club World Cup: “The favorites don’t matter”
Benfica midfielder Florentino Luís has shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated clash with Chelsea in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. The Portuguese side will face the Premier League giants this Saturday (June 28) at 5 PM (Brasília time) at the Bank of America Stadium, in the United States.
Florentino: “Favorites don’t decide matches”
Speaking to DAZN, Florentino dismissed the idea that Chelsea’s favoritism would impact the outcome.
“The favorites don’t matter much. What happens on the field is what counts. We’re focused on how we can attack, defend, and play a complete match,” said the midfielder.
The 24-year-old stressed that Benfica are approaching the game with ambition and confidence, regardless of the opponent’s stature:
“All matches were going to be difficult, from Boca Juniors to Bayern, and now against Chelsea, it’s no different. We’re going in with the ambition to give our best and qualify for the next round.”
Florentino returns from injury ahead of Chelsea clash
Florentino missed Benfica’s last two group stage matches against Auckland City and Bayern Munich due to a right shoulder injury. Now recovered, he has resumed full training and is expected to be available for Bruno Lage’s squad.
“It was a setback, but we must always adapt. I’ve been supporting the team from the sidelines, though it’s tough to feel so powerless,” he explained.
His return could bring crucial balance to Benfica’s midfield against Chelsea’s high-paced and technically gifted attack.
Facing familiar names in the Chelsea lineup
The match will also mark a reunion with former teammate Enzo Fernández and fellow Portuguese international Pedro Neto. Florentino acknowledged the quality of his opponents and sees it as a motivating factor.
“They are both great players. These kinds of matches raise our concentration and performance levels. We always want to face the best,” said Florentino.
Match Overview: Benfica vs Chelsea
- Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
- Time: 5 PM (Brasília time)
- Venue: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, USA
- Stage: Round of 16 – FIFA Club World Cup
- Broadcast: DAZN, CazéTV (YouTube), SporTV, Disney+
