Enzo Maresca Questions Weather After Chelsea vs SL Benfica Match
The FIFA Club World Cup has been filled with excitement and drama, but for Chelsea FC manager Enzo Maresca, the match against SL Benfica was nothing short of ridiculous. The match that lasted nearly 5 hours left the Chelsea manager questioning the weather conditions and the overall quality of the game.
The match, which took place on a hot and humid day in Qatar, was marked by a series of stoppages and interruptions, including two lengthy delays due to extreme weather conditions. The heat was so intense that it caused players from both teams to struggle, with several players suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion.
For Maresca, the weather was a major factor in the match’s duration. “I think it’s a joke, to be honest. It’s not football. It’s not for us. I’m very proud. How can you keep them two hours inside, focused?” Maresca questioned during a post-match interview.
Maresca’s frustration was understandable, given the circumstances. The extreme heat and humidity made it difficult for players to perform at their best, and the constant interruptions only added to the chaos. Despite the challenges, Chelsea managed to hold on for a 2-0 win, but it was clear that the conditions had taken a toll on both teams.
The weather conditions were not the only issue that plagued the match. The pitch itself was also a concern, with several players struggling to control the ball due to the uneven surface. The unevenness of the pitch made it difficult for players to maintain their balance, leading to a series of costly mistakes.
Despite the challenges, Maresca was proud of his team’s performance. “We fought hard, we showed character, and we played with a lot of heart,” Maresca said. “I’m very proud of my players. They gave everything they had, and we deserved the win.”
Maresca’s comments were echoed by his players, who also expressed their frustration with the weather conditions. “It was tough, but we managed to get through it,” said Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount. “We knew it was going to be a tough game, but we fought hard and came out on top.”
The win was a significant one for Chelsea, as it marked their first victory in the FIFA Club World Cup. The team will now face Brazilian side Palmeiras in the semifinals, and Maresca is confident that his team can continue to perform well.
“We’re going to keep working hard and preparing for the next game,” Maresca said. “We know it’s going to be a tough match, but we’re confident in our abilities and we’re ready to face whatever challenges come our way.”
In the end, the match between Chelsea and SL Benfica was a testament to the resilience and determination of the players. Despite the extreme weather conditions and the challenges posed by the pitch, the team managed to come out on top and secure a significant victory.
As Maresca said, “I’m very proud of my players. They gave everything they had, and we deserved the win.” The victory was a significant one for Chelsea, and it sets them up for a strong run in the FIFA Club World Cup.
News Source:
https://sports.info/football/enzo-maresca-questions-weather-conditions-for-chelsea-vs-sl-benfica-match-9448005
