Chelsea cruised into the last 16 of the Club World Cup with a composed 3-0 victory over Tunisian champions Espérance in sweltering conditions at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field. The win provided a timely boost for Enzo Maresca’s side following a disappointing group-stage defeat to Flamengo and ensured their progression despite finishing second in Group D.
The night marked a milestone for young striker Liam Delap, who opened his Chelsea account in the absence of the suspended Nicolas Jackson. Delap’s goal just before half-time doubled Chelsea’s lead after Tosin Adarabioyo had headed them in front moments earlier from an Enzo Fernandez free-kick. The Tunisian goalkeeper, Bechir Ben Said, endured a torrid evening, reacting poorly to Delap’s tame effort and later spilling another long-range effort that allowed substitute Tyrique George to add a third in stoppage time.
Maresca took the opportunity to rotate heavily, making eight changes to the side and handing starts to squad players including Filip Jorgensen in goal and Christopher Nkunku up front—his first start since April. There was no place in the starting XI again for Andrey Santos, though the young midfielder did make a late cameo and almost earned a penalty, only for VAR to overturn the decision.
The match got off to a slow start in punishing heat and humidity. Chelsea’s early tempo was lethargic, and Espérance found space down the flanks, testing both full-backs Josh Acheampong and Malo Gusto. However, Chelsea soon settled into rhythm, with Noni Madueke offering energy and creativity, particularly in the first half.
Fernandez and Dewsbury-Hall controlled midfield, and Nkunku drifted into pockets of space, showing flashes of his attacking instincts. Despite being far from his peak form, he linked well with Delap and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.
The second half saw Chelsea in control, creating several chances and managing the game confidently. With Benfica awaiting in the last 16, Maresca took no risks and substituted Delap midway through the second half to preserve energy, with Jackson still suspended.
The result spared Chelsea a tougher path against Bayern Munich, who shockingly lost top spot in their group to Benfica. The win also guaranteed a financial boost of £7m, and perhaps more significantly, restored some momentum after a stuttering start to the tournament.
Although Chelsea remain a work in progress under Maresca’s complex system, the clean sheet, squad depth, and emergence of younger talents like Delap and George provided a much-needed tonic as the knockout stages loom.
