Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca have been forced to adjust his team due to summer heat and fatigue as they prepare for Friday’s clash against Brazilian giants Flamengo at the Club World Cup.
With the game expected to decide who will finish top of Group D ahead of the knockout rounds, Maresca said he has reduced the intensity and duration of training sessions to ensure his players remain competitive.
Chelsea resumed training for the tournament shortly after winning the Europa Conference League title on May 28, following the conclusion of their Premier League campaign, and Maresca is focused on winning more silverware.
Chelsea and Flamengo are tied at the top of Group D with three points each following 2-0 wins against LAFC and Esperance de Tunis, respectively.
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Meanwhile Paris Saint-Germain suffered a shocking 1-0 defeat against Brazilian side Botafogo on Thursday in a hardfought battle between the reigning champions of Europe and South America.
A first-half goal from Brazilian international Igor Jesus proved the difference as Botafogo sealed a place in the knockout rounds in front of a 53,699 crowd at the Pasadena Rose Bowl.
French champions PSG are widely regarded as one of the favourites for FIFA’s 32-team tournament after a dazzling season which resulted in a 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Champions League final last month.
But their hopes of securing a victory which would have seen them become the first side to reach the last 16 were frustrated by a resilient performance from their opponents from Rio de Janeiro.
(Editor: Paul Akhagbemhe)
