Chelsea Edge Palmeiras 2-1 to Reach Club World Cup Semi-Finals, Set Up Clash with Fluminense
New Jersey, USA — July 5, 2025
Chelsea booked their place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semi-final with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Palmeiras at the MetLife Stadium, overcoming a stunning strike by their own future star Estevão Willian.
Chelsea Start Strong, Palmer Breaks Through
After a mixed end to their domestic season, Chelsea came into the Club World Cup eager to restore their dominance. Manager Enzo Maresca, fresh off lifting the UEFA Conference League, saw his side take control early.
The opener came in the 16th minute, when Cole Palmer latched onto a cutback inside the box and rifled the ball into the bottom corner. It was a composed, clinical finish—another testament to the former Manchester City man’s increasing importance in Chelsea’s attack.
🎙️ Palmer on his goal: “It’s always great to score for Chelsea, but what matters is getting the team into the next round.”
Estevão’s Moment of Magic – A Glimpse into Chelsea’s Future
In the second half, Palmeiras equalized through none other than Estevão, the 17-year-old Brazilian prodigy who has already agreed a big-money move to Stamford Bridge next season.
The teenager received the ball near the edge of the box, danced past two Chelsea defenders, and curled a powerful strike into the top corner—leaving Kepa Arrizabalaga motionless.
📌 Stat: Estevão is set to join Chelsea in 2026 for a reported €65 million.
🗣️ Maresca post-match: “We’re excited to welcome him. He showed his quality even against us. He’ll be a star.”
Late Twist – Malo Gusto’s Cross Creates Winner
Just when it seemed the game would drift into extra time, Chelsea grabbed the lead back in dramatic fashion. Malo Gusto, pushing forward from right-back, whipped in a dangerous cross in the 85th minute.
The ball took a wicked deflection off a Palmeiras defender, then ricocheted off their keeper’s hand before bouncing into the net.
Though credited as an own goal, it was the result of sustained pressure by Chelsea’s wide players, who had been testing the Brazilian defence all match.
Squad Challenges Ahead for Chelsea
While the result was positive, Maresca will be without two key players in the upcoming semi-final against Fluminense on Tuesday, July 9:
- Liam Delap – suspended (second yellow card of tournament after an elbow in the first half)
- Levi Colwill – suspended (reckless challenge in the second half)
However, there is good news: Moises Caicedo returns to the lineup after serving his one-game ban.
Tactical Insights
- Maresca’s high-press system kept Palmeiras on the back foot early, with Enzo Fernández and Palmer orchestrating from midfield.
- Palmeiras exploited Chelsea’s high line with quick counters, particularly through Estevão and Rony.
- Chelsea’s full-backs Gusto and Cucurella played advanced roles, vital in pinning Palmeiras wide and creating overloads.
Maresca Speaks Post-Match
“It was a tough game, as we expected. Palmeiras are fresh, just beginning their season, while we are at the end of ours. I want to congratulate the boys—they gave everything and kept fighting till the last second.”
What’s Next?
Club World Cup Semi-Final Fixture
- Fluminense vs Chelsea
🗓️ Tuesday, July 9
🕒 3:00 p.m. ET
📍 MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
Chelsea now face a well-rested Fluminense, who have dominated their domestic league. With suspensions in defence, Maresca will need to reshuffle tactically to maintain the Blues’ momentum.
Match Stats: Palmeiras 1-2 Chelsea
| Statistic | Palmeiras | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 45% | 55% |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 6 |
| Total Shots | 8 | 14 |
| Corners | 2 | 5 |
| Fouls | 11 | 10 |
Player of the Match: Estevão
Despite being on the losing side, Estevão’s goal, energy, and vision caught everyone’s eye—proving why Chelsea moved early to secure his signature. His performance was a glimpse of the future for the Blues.
Conclusion:
Chelsea’s journey at the Club World Cup continues, and with confidence high, Maresca’s side is beginning to take shape on the global stage. But with Estevão stealing headlines even in defeat, the Blues may have won more than just a quarter-final—they may have unearthed their next superstar.