THE XI IS SET! Chelsea's Club World Cup Dream Rests on Maresca's Chosen 11 vs. Benfica

The excitement of the 2025 Club World Cup is at its peak, and Chelsea is gearing up for a crucial clash in the Round of 16. Their opponent is none other than Benfica, in what promises to be one of the most attractive and fiercely contested matchups of this FIFA tournament stage. After a group stage with its ups and downs, manager Enzo Maresca has practically finalized the lineup that will take the field against the Portuguese side, looking to secure their passage to the next round.

Chelsea's journey so far has been a mix of brilliant flashes and moments of uncertainty, but now, with the group stage behind them, there's no room for error. A single match will decide their continuation in the tournament, and Maresca has opted for a starting eleven that seeks a balance between defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking prowess.

The Battle for the Quarter-Finals: Chelsea vs. Benfica, a Clash of Strategies

The confrontation between Chelsea and Benfica is a European classic that now moves to the world stage, promising a clash of styles and ambitions.

• Chelsea: With an Eye on Global Glory. The Blues enter the Round of 16 with high expectations. Despite having a group stage that "included successes and errors," the quality of their squad and the desire to make their mark in the Club World Cup make them a formidable contender. The pressure is high, but Maresca's team is ready to embrace it.
• Benfica: The Portuguese Challenge. The Portuguese club is known for its attacking football and its ability to develop talent. Facing Benfica always means a demanding match where speed and technique are often protagonists. It will be a litmus test for Chelsea's defense and midfield.
• Maresca: The Architect of the Plan. Enzo Maresca, the strategist at Chelsea's helm, has spent days analyzing the opponent and refining the details. His choice of the starting eleven reflects his vision for the match: a team capable of controlling the ball, being direct in attack, and maintaining tactical discipline against a dangerous opponent. The chemistry between the lines will be vital.

Chelsea's Probable Lineup: An XI Designed for Victory

According to the latest information, the formation Maresca will send onto the field is as follows, seeking the perfect balance to overcome Benfica:

• Goalkeeper: Filip Jörgensen. The Swedish goalkeeper is set to defend the Blue goal. His agility, reflexes, and ability to initiate play from the back will be crucial for the team's defensive solidity.
• Defenders: Malo Gusto, Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, Josh Acheampong. The defensive line presents a combination of experience and youth. Malo Gusto will provide attacking impetus down the right flank, while the central defensive duo of Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo will aim to assert themselves physically and with good aerial play. On the left flank, Josh Acheampong will have the responsibility of containing and pushing forward when necessary. Solidity at the back will be fundamental to withstand Benfica's offense.
• Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Roméo Lavia. The midfield is the heart of the team, and Maresca opts for a dynamic and talented trio. Enzo Fernández will be the pivot, with his vision, passing ability, and leadership. Alongside him, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will contribute his physical presence, runs into the box, and ball-winning capabilities. Roméo Lavia, for his part, will offer balance, possession control, and clean distribution from the base of the midfield. The battle in the center of the park will be key to dominating the match.
• Forwards: Christopher Nkunku, Liam Delap, Noni Madueke. In attack, speed, dribbling, and finishing will be Chelsea's weapons. Christopher Nkunku will be one of the main focal points, with his movement, ability to make runs, and goal-scoring instincts. Beside him, Liam Delap will bring strength, presence in the box, and finishing, while Noni Madueke will look to create unbalance on the flanks with his dribbling and pace. The connection between these three will be vital to create danger and convert opportunities.

Pressure and Expectations: Chelsea's Path Forward

This match is more than just a knockout tie; it's an opportunity for Chelsea to reaffirm their status in world football.

• No Margin for Error: As a direct elimination match, Chelsea cannot afford to make mistakes. Every play, every decision will be crucial. Concentration and efficiency will be decisive for advancing.
• The Impact of the Club World Cup: Winning the Club World Cup is a huge prestige for any team. For Chelsea, it would be a title that would add luster to their already successful history and serve as a significant morale boost for the season.
• Maresca's Message: The Italian coach will seek to motivate his players, reminding them of the importance of this tournament and the opportunity to prove their worth on the global stage. A winning mentality will be just as important as tactical strategy.

The ball will kick off in a few hours, and the football world will be watching the outcome of this thrilling clash between Chelsea and Benfica. Maresca's lineup is ready; now it's up to the players to step onto the field and show why they are one of the strong contenders to lift the coveted 2025 Club World Cup trophy.