Chelsea's players are battling more than just their opponents at the Club World Cup. The team is struggling with a 'code red' heat warning in Philadelphia, where temperatures have hit a scorching 37°C.
Manager Enzo Maresca didn't mince words about the situation. "This morning's session has been very, very, very short," he admitted. "It's impossible to organize normal training sessions in these conditions."
The humidity is making things even worse. With 45% humidity, it feels more like a sweltering 45°C. Monday's temperatures were predicted to cross 100°F (37.78°C) for the first time in 13 years.
Creative Cooling Methods Can't Solve Everything
The club's staff got creative with their cooling efforts. They positioned huge fans around the pitch that sprayed water mist. Players trained in the only partially-shaded area of Subaru Park, home of MLS side Philadelphia Union.
Crates of iced water bottles were stationed around the field. Players were offered drinks at every opportunity between drills. Despite these efforts, the session remained extremely brief.
Defender Marc Cucurella acknowledged the challenge: "It takes some getting used to. We know we have a job to do here, and we want to go far in the tournament."
Crucial Match Ahead Under Pressure
Chelsea isn't just fighting the heat. They're under pressure after losing 3-1 to Brazilian club Flamengo in their previous match. They now face ES Tunis in their final Group D game.
The Blues need at least a draw to qualify as runners-up. This would set up a last-16 tie against Bayern Munich, Benfica, or Boca Juniors – a challenging but potentially rewarding path forward.
Team captain Reece James might miss the match due to illness. Nicolas Jackson is definitely out after receiving a red card last week.
Chelsea isn't alone in their struggle with the American heat. Borussia Dortmund's manager Niko Kovac said he was "sweating like I've just come out of a sauna" after his team's match in Cincinnati's 32°C heat.
Atletico Madrid midfielder Marcos Llorente was even more direct after their 4-0 defeat to PSG in similar conditions: "My toes were sore, my nails were hurting... it's incredible."
These widespread issues raise serious questions about next year's World Cup, which the United States will co-host during the same summer period. If elite players are struggling now, what might happen during the sport's biggest tournament?
For bettors considering Chelsea's chances, these extreme conditions add another unpredictable element. Teams adapting better to the heat might have an edge that traditional form guides won't show.
