Chelsea Reaches Club World Cup Last 16 Facing Benfica After Group Stage Exit

Chelsea is favored to advance past Benfica in their FIFA Club World Cup last-16 match, with simulations showing a strong likelihood of a win within 90 minutes. Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and managing player rotation due to the demanding schedule and heat conditions, praising his squad's recent performances including a 3-0 win over ES Tunis. Benfica, having topped Group C with a notable 1-0 victory over Bayern Munich, pose a tough challenge, particularly with their effective right-flank attacks led by players like Angel Di Maria and Fredrik Aursnes. Despite Benfica's strong group stage showing, their historical record against English Premier League teams is poor, having not beaten English opposition since 2014. Chelsea have previously defeated Benfica in UEFA competitions and are currently in good form, having won 16 of 22 games since February. Both teams are motivated to progress, knowing the tournament has narrowed from 32 to 16 teams, with the winner advancing to face Brazilian clubs Palmeiras or Botafogo.