Chelsea coach criticizes US choice to host World Club Cup: ‘It’s a joke’
After Chelsea’s 4–1 win over Benfica, Enzo Maresca didn’t hold back blasting the match delays and questioning the U.S. as a suitable host for the Club World Cup.
Despite advancing to the quarterfinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca voiced serious frustration over the tournament’s frequent weather-related stoppages. His comments came after Saturday’s (June 28) clash against Benfica was suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning threats in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“It’s not the same game. Players talk to their families, pick up their cell phones, people run. This changes everything,” Maresca told reporters post-match.
“Six or Seven Games Already Suspended”
The Round of 16 match was halted in the 40th minute of the second half with Chelsea leading 1–0. After the delay, Benfica equalized with a penalty from Ángel Di María, pushing the game into extra time where Chelsea ultimately dominated.
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“It’s no coincidence,” Maresca argued.
“They had no chances for 85 minutes, then scored after the stoppage. After two hours of waiting, it’s no longer football. It’s something else.”
He also questioned the suitability of the U.S. as a host nation:
“Six or seven games have already been suspended. Maybe this is not the ideal place for this competition.”
Chelsea to Face Palmeiras in Quarterfinals
Despite the delays, Chelsea powered through with a 4–1 victory, and now move on to face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals on Friday, July 4, at 10 PM (Brasília time) in Philadelphia.
Concerns for 2026 World Cup
The Club World Cup’s ongoing weather disruptions have sparked larger concerns, especially with the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and played during the same summer months.
Maresca’s remarks raise valid questions:
Will FIFA address the impact of extreme weather protocols on elite international competitions?
