Why is the Benfica vs. Chelsea second half delayed at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

With the game nearing its end, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 game between Benfica and Chelsea got suddenly delayed.

Benfica and Chelsea faced off in the round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, battling for a spot in the next stage. But as the match neared its conclusion, play was unexpectedly halted at Bank of America Stadium — leaving fans in Charlotte surprised and confused.

In the 86th minute, the stadium’s public address system announced that FIFA’s lightning protocol had been activated due to severe weather in the area. Supporters from both teams were instructed to seek shelter in the interior concourses of the stadium as thunderstorm activity approached the venue.

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