Chelsea x Benfica: Maresca prepares to face the team at full strength
Chelsea will take on Benfica this Saturday (June 28) in the round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The high-stakes match kicks off at 5 PM (Brasília time) at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, USA, and comes with a lucrative reward: $13 million for the team that advances to the quarterfinals.
Chelsea Aim for Redemption After Flamengo Loss
The Blues finished second in Group D with six points, trailing Flamengo, who topped the group. Benfica, meanwhile, topped Group C after a surprise win over Bayern Munich, entering the knockout phase with strong momentum.
With the stakes high, manager Enzo Maresca is expected to field his strongest XI, unlike the previous fixture where he rotated the squad and gave rest to several key players.
Key Players Return for the Knockout Clash
Nicolas Jackson returns from suspension and is available for selection. Key names like Cole Palmer, Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo, and Pedro Neto are also expected to start after being rested in the last match.
Maresca’s Likely Starting XI:
Sánchez; Gusto, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Enzo Fernández, Caicedo; Madueke, Palmer, Pedro Neto; Delap
This lineup mirrors the team’s best performances in the season and reflects Maresca’s intent to approach the clash with tactical sharpness and offensive strength.
Bench Players Push for Minutes
Several backup players impressed in the win over Espérance and may see action again:
- Tyrique George
- Andrey Santos
- Adarabioyo
These names are expected to be impact options from the bench, adding depth and versatility as Chelsea look to neutralize a confident Benfica side.
Match Preview
With a spot in the quarterfinals and $13 million on the line, both clubs are going all in. Benfica are riding high after a landmark group-stage win, but Chelsea now return at full force with Cole Palmer orchestrating the attack and a midfield anchored by Caicedo and Enzo Fernández.
Match Info Recap
- Fixture: Chelsea vs Benfica – Club World Cup Round of 16
- Date: Saturday, June 28
- Time: 5 PM (Brasília time)
- Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte
- Prize: $13 million for the winner
