Chelsea Beats Benfica After Storm Delays Match

Chelsea advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals with a 4-1 extra-time win over Benfica after a match in Charlotte, North Carolina, was suspended for nearly two hours due to lightning. The game was halted late in regulation, requiring players and fans to seek shelter as US safety protocols mandated delays after each lightning strike. Once play resumed, Chelsea scored three goals in extra time to secure victory. The match lasted over four and a half hours and was played in extreme heat and humidity. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca criticized the choice of US venues, citing repeated weather delays as a major issue. The interruption has fueled debate over the suitability of American locations for international football tournaments.