Our 3-0 victory over ES Tunis on Tuesday night – a game that Acheampong started – ensured we finished second in Group D and qualified for the Round of 16.

Benfica await the Blues in the next stage; we will face the Portuguese giants, who topped a group that included Bayern Munich, on Saturday in Charlotte, North Carolina.

That game will be far from simple for Maresca's side, something which Acheampong highlighted after helping us beyond Tunis, but it's one he is looking forward to.

The Academy graduate explained: ‘Benfica are a really big club, but every game in this competition is hard. So while we need to focus on the opponent, the most important thing is that we focus on ourselves.

‘It [the tournament] is really exciting. We’re into the knockouts now and every single game is important. We just have to keep winning.'

Acheampong was an unused substitute in our opening two matches of the Club World Cup, yet he stepped into the side against Tunis and showcased his quality and versatility.

The 19-year-old began the game at right-back but finished it in central midfield. It was another indication of the trust he has earned from Maresca.

‘It’s important the manager has faith in me,' Acheampong said after our final group-stage fixture. 'It means I get to play – and I’m very happy to have played [against ES Tunis].'

DAZN are broadcasting every game at the Club World Cup for free around the world. Sign up to DAZN to watch the Blues play for free!