FIFA Receives Warning Over World Cup Weather Concerns as Enzo Maresca Expresses Frustration

FIFA have been warned they risk the wrath of broadcasters if they don't confront the weather issues that have blighted the Club World Cup. Chelsea and Benfica were the latest to suffer as their clash was interrupted by a lightning strike. Rules dictate that should there be such an event within an eight-mile radius, the game must be paused and players taken off the pitch.

In the Club World Cup Round of 16 clash, the Blues were easing to a 1-0 when, five minutes from the end, the delay began. It took one hour and 53 minutes for play to eventually resume and almost immediately a penalty for Benfica, won via a Malo Gusto handball, was converted by Angel Di Maria and took the match to extra-time. Strikes from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall sealed a 4-1 win - but four hours and 38 minutes after the original kick-off time.

Storms in six different cities have caused game delays at the revamped Club World Cup, while a heatwave has also seen delays needed in others putting pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed his frustration with the situation, highlighting the disruption caused by the extended breaks during the game.

Former Chelsea and Benfica right-back Scott Minto emphasized the need for FIFA to address the weather-related challenges to avoid similar disruptions at future events, including the upcoming World Cup.

According to the source: talkSPORT.