Delap Shines! Chelsea Klop ES Tunis in Club World Cup Thriller!
Chelsea secured their spot in the Club World Cup last 16 with a dominant 3-0 victory over ES Tunis at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The match, played in sweltering conditions, saw Liam Delap net his first goal for the Blues, marking a significant moment in his Chelsea career. Tosin Adarabioyo and Tyrique George also found the back of the net, sealing a comfortable win for Enzo Maresca's side.
Match Highlights: Chelsea vs. ES Tunis
The game kicked off with Chelsea making eight changes to their starting lineup, a decision influenced by the extreme heat and humidity in Philadelphia. Despite the changes, Chelsea controlled the game from the outset, with Josh Acheampong nearly scoring in the first half. However, it was Tosin Adarabioyo who broke the deadlock in the third minute of first-half stoppage time, heading in a free-kick from Enzo Fernandez.
Just moments later, Liam Delap doubled Chelsea's lead with a well-taken goal. Receiving a pass from Noni Madueke, Delap spun into space and fired a precise shot into the bottom corner, leaving the ES Tunis goalkeeper with no chance. The goal marked a significant milestone for the young striker, who joined Chelsea from Ipswich for £30 million earlier this month.
In the second half, Chelsea continued to dominate possession, although the game lacked the intensity of the first. Substitute Tyrique George added a third goal in injury time, putting the final nail in ES Tunis's coffin. The win ensured Chelsea finished second in Group D, behind Flamengo, and set up a last-16 clash with Benfica.
Delap's Debut Goal: A Sign of Things to Come?
Liam Delap's performance was undoubtedly the highlight of the match. The 22-year-old striker showed glimpses of his potential, demonstrating his pace, skill, and composure in front of goal. With Nicolas Jackson suspended for the upcoming match against Benfica, Delap's goal couldn't have come at a better time, providing Enzo Maresca with a valuable alternative in attack.
Sky Sports News chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol has already labeled Delap a 'bargain' signing, and his performance against ES Tunis suggests he could be a key player for Chelsea in the future. His ability to hold up the ball, link up with teammates, and finish clinically will be crucial as Chelsea aim to compete on multiple fronts this season.
Chelsea's Road Ahead in the Club World Cup
Chelsea's victory over ES Tunis means they will now face Benfica in the last 16 of the Club World Cup. The Portuguese side, who surprisingly topped Group C ahead of Bayern Munich, will pose a tough challenge for the Blues. The match will be played in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Saturday.
Manager Enzo Maresca will need to carefully manage his squad, considering the congested fixture schedule and the ongoing heat and humidity. However, with players like Delap stepping up, Chelsea will be confident of progressing further in the competition.
Key Takeaways from the Match:
- Liam Delap scores his first goal for Chelsea.
- Chelsea secure their place in the Club World Cup last 16.
- Tosin Adarabioyo and Tyrique George also score for the Blues.
- Chelsea will face Benfica in the next round.
- The match was played in extreme heat and humidity.