Kickoff Time: 3:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM BST
Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Broadcast: DAZN (Global), TNT (USA), Channel 5 (UK)
Global Showdown: South America vs Europe
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup semifinal between Fluminense and Chelsea promises a thrilling clash of footballing philosophies. Brazilian flair meets English precision as both clubs vie for a coveted spot in the final against either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid.
Match Context & Storylines
Fluminense, the 2023 Copa Libertadores champions, are riding a wave of momentum after stunning Inter Milan and Al Hilal in the knockout rounds. Chelsea, fresh off a UEFA Conference League title, have battled through a tough draw, edging Benfica in extra time and narrowly defeating Palmeiras 2–1. This is the first-ever competitive meeting between the two clubs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already high-stakes encounter.
Tactical Breakdown
Chelsea (4-2-3-1)
Manager: Enzo Maresca
Key Players: Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo
Strengths:
Midfield control with Caicedo and Fernández
Versatile attacking trio behind the striker
Depth in squad despite suspensions
Concerns:
Suspensions to Levi Colwill and Liam Delap
Injury doubts over Reece James and Romeo Lavia
Fluminense (3-5-2)
Manager: Renato Gaúcho
Key Players: Germán Cano, Jhon Arias, Thiago Silva
Strengths:
Compact defensive shape led by 40-year-old Silva
Dangerous in transition with Arias and Cano
Resilience in late-game situations (4 goals after 70’)
Concerns:
Suspensions to Juan Pablo Freytes and Matheus Martinelli
Limited squad depth
Recent Form & Stats
| Team | Last 5 Matches (All Comps) | Goals Scored | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| Fluminense | W-W-D-W-D | 8 | 3 | 3 |
| Chelsea | W-W-W-L-W | 12 | 5 | 2 |
Chelsea have scored 12 goals in the tournament, tied with PSG for most.
Fluminense have conceded just 3 goals, second-best defensive record behind PSG.
Key Matchups to Watch
Thiago Silva vs Cole Palmer – A battle of experience vs youth as Silva anchors Flu’s backline against Chelsea’s creative spark.
Jhon Arias vs Cucurella – Arias’ pace and dribbling could be a nightmare for Chelsea’s left flank.
Midfield Engine Room – Caicedo and Fernández vs Hercules and Bernal will dictate tempo and transitions.
MATCH ODDS
Fluminense + 475 Draw + 280 Chelsea – 160
Over 2.5 + 110 Under 2.5 – 140
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, July 7, 2025
