'The big boys will be back' – Chelsea legend Mikel warns Benfica ahead of CWC showdown

Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel has backed the Blues to secure victory over Portuguese giants Benfica in the knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup.

Chelsea advanced to the Round of 16 after a commanding 3-0 win against ES Tunis in the early hours of Wednesday.

Goals from Tosin Adarabioyo and Liam Delap in the first half gave Chelsea a solid lead, before Tyrique George sealed the win with a late strike in the second half.

With the victory, the Blues advanced to the knockout stage as runners-up in Group D with six points, just one behind group leaders Flamengo.

Meanwhile, Benfica booked their place in the Round of 16 by topping Group C with seven points, narrowly edging out Bayern Munich, who finished second with six points.

Speaking on DAZN following the match, Mikel praised the Blues' performance despite the absence of key first-team players.

"I think it is a game we have to win, I think the way we have performed. The big boys, today, they were rested Cole Palmer, Caicedo, and the rest of them," Mikel stated. 

The former Chelsea midfielder expressed confidence that the return of the club's star players will further strengthen the team ahead of their clash with Benfica.

"I think when they come back into the next game, we are going to expect a much better Chelsea. 

"I see us winning that game and going through," he added.

Chelsea will be hoping to build on the momentum from their dominant performance as they face a tougher test in Benfica, who have also been impressive in the competition so far.

Adeyemi Adewale

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