‘It’s not football’: Maresca furious after Chelsea’s two-hour weather delay

Enzo Maresca says Chelsea were in control of their last 16 match against Benfica until play was suspended in the 85th minute due to storm activity. Photograph: Chris Carlson/AP

A furious Enzo Maresca suggested that the US is not fit to host the Club World Cup after Chelsea’s 4-1 victory over Benfica in the last 16 was delayed for almost two hours in Charlotte, North Carolina, because of a severe weather event.

Chelsea were 1-0 up and cruising towards the last eight when play was stopped with five minutes of normal left at Bank of America Stadium after a lightning strike in the area. The teams were ordered off the pitch by the officials and had to stay in their respective dressing rooms before play resumed after an hour and 53 minutes.