- This matchup features two clubs from contrasting footballing backgrounds: Chelsea, a dominant force in England, and Fluminense, a surprising contender from Brazil.
- Analysts and bookmakers predominantly favour Chelsea, with predictive models assigning the English team an 81.3% chance of winning.
Chelsea and Fluminense are set to face off tonight in the semi-finals of the 2025 inaugural semi-final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
This matchup features two clubs from contrasting footballing backgrounds: Chelsea, a dominant force in England, and Fluminense, a surprising contender from Brazil.
Chelsea comes into this match as one of the tournament's top contenders. After an unexpected loss to Flamengo in the group stage, the team recovered by overcoming Benfica and Palmeiras in the knockout phases.
Under Enzo Maresca's leadership, the squad has showcased flashes of attacking innovation and tactical adaptability; nonetheless, concerns regarding player exhaustion and the sweltering temperatures could impact the match's outcome.
The Premier League team will be missing two crucial players—defender Levi Colwill and striker Liam Delap—due to suspensions.
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Their absence could push Maresca to depend on the newly signed João Pedro to join Nicolas Jackson in attack.
Moisés Caicedo is anticipated to return to midfield alongside Enzo Fernández, while Cole Palmer and Andrey Santos might take on more forward positions. Despite these challenges, Chelsea's squad depth and attacking capabilities make them formidable contenders for advancement.
On the other hand, Fluminense has surpassed expectations during the tournament. Manager Renato Gaúcho has instilled a patient, possession-oriented approach aimed at neutralising more aggressive opponents.
While they may not possess the same star power as Chelsea, their organisation and tenacity have made them one of the tournament's most fascinating narratives.
Experience has played an important role in Fluminense's achievements.
Former Chelsea centre-back Thiago Silva, now at 40, leads the defence, supported by 45-year-old goalkeeper Fábio.
However, with midfielders Freytes and Martinelli suspended, Gaúcho may need to rearrange his lineup, potentially bringing in Hércules to the midfield.
Analysts and bookmakers predominantly favour Chelsea, with predictive models assigning the English team an 81.3% chance of winning.
Football pundits predict a 1–0 or 2–1 victory for Chelsea, although an upset remains a possibility, especially if the game advances into extra time in the scorching New Jersey heat.
Should Chelsea win, they will meet the victor of the other semi-final between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain. For Fluminense, a win would constitute one of the most extraordinary underdog stories in Club World Cup history and provide an opportunity to bring the trophy back to Brazil after more than ten years.
As both teams gear up for the match, the stakes are incredibly high. Chelsea aims for international glory to conclude a lengthy season, while Fluminense hopes to carve out a historic moment in their club's history.
