Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca could not hide his joy after beating Palmeiras 2-1. The Italian manager said his team earned every bit of their Club World Cup quarter-final victory. Maresca told reporters that Chelsea controlled the first half completely against the Brazilian side. The Blues scored one goal but could have netted several more during that period. Palmeiras came back stronger after halftime and managed to level the score.
The Chelsea coach admitted his team lost some control during the second half. Palmeiras found their rhythm and grabbed an equalizer through better play. Maresca watched his players fight back during the final 20 minutes of the match. Chelsea regained their composure and secured the winning goal late. The manager believes luck played no part in their semifinal qualification.
Maresca addressed questions about winger Noni Madueke and his future at the club. The England international has been crucial for Chelsea throughout this season. Madueke contributed significantly during the Palmeiras victory as well. The coach made his position clear about player attitudes at the club. Any footballer who feels unhappy at Chelsea can leave immediately.
The manager refused to discuss UEFA financial penalties against his club. Maresca said those business matters do not concern him at all. His job involves improving players and winning matches every day. The coach prefers focusing on football rather than administrative issues. Team performance remains his only priority during this tournament.
Chelsea will face Fluminense during the semifinal round next week. Maresca plans to study the Brazilian team starting tomorrow morning. He has already watched several Fluminense matches and respects their organization. The opponent features talented players and excellent coaching staff. Their energy levels stay high because the Brazilian season just started recently.
The Chelsea coach admitted his team lost some control during the second half. Palmeiras found their rhythm and grabbed an equalizer through better play. Maresca watched his players fight back during the final 20 minutes of the match. Chelsea regained their composure and secured the winning goal late. The manager believes luck played no part in their semifinal qualification.
Maresca addressed questions about winger Noni Madueke and his future at the club. The England international has been crucial for Chelsea throughout this season. Madueke contributed significantly during the Palmeiras victory as well. The coach made his position clear about player attitudes at the club. Any footballer who feels unhappy at Chelsea can leave immediately.
The manager refused to discuss UEFA financial penalties against his club. Maresca said those business matters do not concern him at all. His job involves improving players and winning matches every day. The coach prefers focusing on football rather than administrative issues. Team performance remains his only priority during this tournament.
Chelsea will face Fluminense during the semifinal round next week. Maresca plans to study the Brazilian team starting tomorrow morning. He has already watched several Fluminense matches and respects their organization. The opponent features talented players and excellent coaching staff. Their energy levels stay high because the Brazilian season just started recently.
