The head coach of London’s Chelsea club, Enzo Mareska, expressed his dissatisfaction with the long break during the match against Benfica in the World Club Championship. This was reported by Euro-football.ru.
After both teams played until the 86th minute, the referee decided to stop the game due to rainy weather. This break lasted nearly two hours.
When the game resumed, Benfica equalized from a penalty. In extra time, Chelsea scored three times, winning 4-1 and advancing to the next stage. According to journalist Nizaar Kinsella, Mareska said, "This feels like a joke, this is not football.
I understand the stoppages from a safety perspective, but if that’s the case, this venue is not suitable for such games. Stopping the game for two hours does not align with football," he stated.
Now Chelsea will play against Palmeiras in the quarter-finals. This match is being closely watched, as both teams are considered strong and competitive.
Mareska believes that such long breaks harm the natural flow of football and create discomfort for the spectators. Therefore, it is essential that games are held in a safe and continuous manner.
