Chelsea secured their spot in the Club World Cup Last-16 with a commanding 3-0 win over ES Tunis – and head coach Enzo Maresca had every reason to be pleased.
From squad rotation to knockout qualification and a clinical display from Liam Delap, Maresca lauded his side’s composure and control ahead of a tricky test against Benfica in Charlotte.
Maresca Delighted by Patience and Performance
It took Chelsea time to break down a resolute ES Tunis side, but the breakthrough came just before the break when Tosin Adarabioyo powered home a header.
Within moments, Liam Delap added a second with a brilliant solo effort, effectively ending the contest by half-time.
“The performance, for me, was good. It wasn’t easy — but once we got the first goal, the game became more open,” said Maresca. — Enzo Maresca
Chelsea kept complete control in the second half, and Tyrique George added a third late on, sealing an emphatic result and sparing key stars ahead of Saturday’s clash.
Rotation Pays Off as Blues Stay Fresh
With eight changes to the side that lost to Flamengo, Maresca showed faith in his squad depth – and it paid off.
“We gave rest to Moi, Trev, Levi, Cucu, Cole, Pedro… it’s impossible not to rotate when playing every three days in this heat,” Maresca explained.
The victory means Chelsea will face Benfica in Charlotte with fresher legs and stronger momentum, as the knockout stages loom.
Chelsea Face Benfica in Knockout Test
Maresca is under no illusions about the challenge Benfica will pose — but believes Chelsea’s qualification speaks volumes about their credentials.
“Now we’re into the last 16. Clubs like Atletico are already out. We have to be proud — and now the target is to reach the quarter-finals,” he said.
Match Summary Table
| Match Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Chelsea 3–0 ES Tunis |
| Goalscorers | Adarabioyo, Delap, George |
| Changes Made by Maresca | 8 |
| Next Match | Benfica (Saturday, Charlotte) |
Analyst Verdict
With young players like Delap delivering and senior stars rested, Maresca may have struck the balance Chelsea need to go deep in this tournament. Benfica will be a stern test — but the blueprint is there.
Key Insights
- Chelsea qualify for Club World Cup Last-16
- Delap, Adarabioyo and George on target
- 8 players rotated with knockout in mind
- Benfica up next in Charlotte
- Maresca eyes quarter-final berth
What’s Next?
Chelsea face Benfica in Charlotte this Saturday for a place in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. A win would underline Maresca’s credentials — and show this Blues side means business on the global stage.
Will Maresca's rotated Chelsea XI have the legs to beat Benfica?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 25 Jun 2025 10:16
We're going to win this!
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