Club World Cup: Benfica vs Chelsea Suspended Due to Extreme Weather
The Round of 16 clash between Benfica and Chelsea at the Club World Cup was abruptly halted due to severe weather in Charlotte, with Chelsea holding a narrow lead.
On Saturday evening (June 28), with just five minutes remaining in regulation, the match at Bank of America Stadium was suspended due to lightning and extreme weather conditions in the area. Stadium alerts and giant screens flashed the emergency message:
“Retreat protocol: Extreme weather in area, seek cover.”
Players were immediately directed back to the locker rooms, and fans were told to seek shelter part of a now-familiar safety measure at this tournament. This is already the sixth match affected by weather delays at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
Score Update Before Suspension
At the time of the stoppage, Chelsea were leading 1–0 thanks to a second-half strike by captain Reece James. The goal currently gives the Premier League side the edge in this Round of 16 matchup and sets up a potential quarterfinal clash with Palmeiras, who earlier defeated Botafogo.
