Chelsea’s Club World Cup Triumph: A Benfica Throwback

While Chelsea finally lifted the Club World Cup trophy in 2021 (played in 2022), defeating Palmeiras, it’s worth revisiting a moment from nearly a decade prior: their 2012 campaign and a key performance against Benfica. Though Chelsea ultimately lost the final to Corinthians that year, their semi-final victory over Benfica provided a glimpse of the tactical pragmatism and individual brilliance that defined that era.

Chelsea entered the 2012 Club World Cup as European champions, riding high on the unexpected Champions League victory secured under Roberto Di Matteo. The team, still boasting the core of Petr Cech, Frank Lampard, David Luiz, and Fernando Torres, were eager to add the coveted world title to their collection. Their semi-final opponent, Benfica, presented a stern test. The Portuguese giants were a well-drilled and technically gifted side, known for their attacking flair and tactical flexibility.

The match itself was a tightly contested affair. Chelsea, under the interim management of Rafael Benitez, adopted a cautious approach, prioritizing defensive solidity and quick counter-attacks. Benfica dominated possession, probing for openings, but Chelsea’s disciplined backline, marshalled by David Luiz, remained resolute. The game was a tactical chess match, with both managers making adjustments to gain the upper hand.

The breakthrough arrived in the 59th minute. Fernando Torres, who had struggled to replicate his Liverpool form since joining Chelsea, found the back of the net with a well-taken goal. The Spaniard latched onto a through ball, showing glimpses of his former pace and composure, and slotted past the Benfica goalkeeper. The goal injected confidence into the Chelsea side, allowing them to sit deeper and protect their lead.

However, Benfica refused to surrender. They continued to press forward, creating several dangerous opportunities. Petr Cech, as he so often did, proved to be a formidable barrier, making crucial saves to deny the Portuguese side. Benfica’s persistence eventually paid off in the 91st minute, when Javi Garcia equalized with a powerful header, setting up a tense finale.

Just when it seemed the game was heading to extra time, Chelsea were awarded a late penalty after a foul in the box. Substitute Victor Moses stepped up and calmly converted, securing a dramatic 1-0 victory for the Blues. The win propelled Chelsea into the final, where they would face Corinthians.

While the 2012 Club World Cup ended in disappointment with the loss to Corinthians, the semi-final against Benfica exemplified the resilience and tactical nous that characterized Chelsea during that period. The victory, secured through a combination of defensive fortitude, individual brilliance, and a slice of luck, served as a reminder of the team’s capabilities and their relentless pursuit of silverware. The memories of that hard-fought victory linger, serving as a precursor to the eventual Club World Cup success achieved nearly a decade later.