After Chelsea’s weather-delayed 4-1 extra-time win against Benfica in Charlotte on Saturday, Enzo Maresca criticized the FIFA Club World Cup’s US hosting.
After Chelsea moved to the quarterfinals against Palmeiras at Bank of America Stadium, Maresca called the two-hour lightning delay ‘a joke’. He lamented the recurring US weather disruptions, saying they hinder attention and player safety in top-level football.
“We conceded nothing. We had enough chances to win, Maresca stated.
“After the break, the game changed completely. That’s not football to me. Seven, eight, nine games have been suspended. Personally, I think it’s a joke. It’s not football. No, not for us. Players can’t stay inside that long.”
Maresca said he understands suspending games for lightning safety, but the regularity of delays proves the location is unsuitable for a renowned tournament.
“If six or seven games have been suspended, decision-makers should reconsider. Because how many World Cup games are suspended? probably none. In Europe? Zero,” he said.
After two weeks, six or seven games have been suspended. I think that’s a problem.” He stated that significant delays make players’ attentiveness practically impossible.
“How can a manager keep players focused for two hours in the dressing room? They’re eating, laughing, playing games, and checking in with their families for safety. Keeping kids cognitively engaged is impossible. A joke.”
“Of course, we’re happy to be here and compete, but this situation is not normal,” Maresca said.
