Chelsea vs Benfica: Blues Blaze Past Eagles in Preseason ThrillerMatch Report & Analysis
Chelsea vs Benfica: Blues Blaze Past Eagles in Preseason ThrillerMatch Report & Analysis
29 Jun
29Jun
An extraordinary roller-coaster saw Chelsea defeat Benfica 4–1 after extra time, but not before lightning storms halted the game with just five minutes left in normal time. Play was suspended with Chelsea leading 1–0 and resumed nearly two hours later, after which Benfica snatched a late equalizer via Ángel Di María’s penalty. Extra time turned into a one-way show as Chelsea, buoyed by a red card for Benfica’s Prestianni, hit three more goals and sealed a dramatic quarter–final spot.
Timeline of Drama
64′ – Reece James curls a brilliant free‑kick into the bottom corner to put Chelsea ahead.
≈ Two Hours Later – Di María steps up and converts a VAR‑awarded penalty (handball by Malo Gusto), leveling the match deep in stopped.
92′ – Prestianni sees red. Benfica reduced to 10 men in extra time.
108′, 114′, 117′ – Nkunku, Neto and Dewsbury‑Hall score in rapid succession as Chelsea brutally finish off a depleted Benfica.
Tactical & Player Analysis
Resilient Midfield Shield: The trio of Caicedo, Lavia, and Fernández anchored the game, controlling the midfield even as dramatic weather disrupted rhythm.
James' Free‑Kick Quality: His set‑piece strike showcased elite delivery—exact placement and audacity from tight range.
Benfica Standouts: Di María’s penalty reflected class under pressure, though fatigue and red card doomed his side in extra time.
Chelsea’s Bench Impact: Substitutions by Maresca changed the match—Nkunku, Neto, and Dewsbury‑Hall combined to devastating effect late on.
Environmental & Mental Resilience
The extreme weather and lengthy delay tested both squads. Chelsea’s ability to reset mentally and rebuild momentumafter a stressful stoppage was a masterclass in focus and resilience .
What It Means
This win confirms Chelsea's grit under Maresca’s leadership and improves their pedigree in high-pressure scenarios.
Benfica showed heart and tactical nous, but the storm and suspension shifted momentum decisively.
Looking Ahead
Chelsea will now face Palmeiras in the quarter‑finals, riding confidence from this marathon win. Benfica exit after a valiant effort that ultimately fell victim to circumstance and extra-time fatigue.
