Elias Mokwana's Esperance eliminated from Club World Cup as Chelsea march into the Round of 16 after cruising to victory

Bafana Bafana international Elias Mokwana played the first half as Esperance's journey at the Club World Cup ended with a 3-0 loss in Group D's outing staged at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Wednesday.

As expected, the Blues dominated the proceedings, as the North African outfit struggled to breach their defense.

It looked like the teams would head to the break goalless, but Tosin Adarabioyo had other ideas. The defender rose highest, in the second minute of added time, to head home Enzo Fernandez's free-kick.

Less than two minutes later, the midfielder set up Liam Delap for the club's second.

The 19-year-old Tyrique George then put the icing on the cake with a late strike that the keeper just couldn't keep out.

Flamengo topped Group D with seven points, with Chelsea coming second having collected six, three more than Esperance, as Los Angeles finished at the bottom with a point.

Have a look at how Group C and D ended on Matchday 3.

Mokwana's display in the three games should be a concern to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos, who is preparing for his forthcoming international games.

South Africa resume their 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers in September, before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations scheduled for December.

The 25-year-old started from the bench against Flamengo, was subbed off against Los Angeles before again being replaced in the second half on Wednesday morning.

Despite rumours emanating from North African media that European clubs were interested in the winger's services, Mokwana failed to make an impact at the tournament, especially in the final third.

While Chelsea advance to the next phase, where they will play Benfica, Esperance will have a few days off before starting preparations for the new season.

Flamengo will play Bayern Munich in the Round of 16, hoping to go all the way in the global club competition.