Chelsea Beat Palmeiras 2-1, Advance to FIFA Club World Cup Semifinal

 Chelsea FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal on July 4, 2025, at Lincoln Financial Field, advancing to the semifinal stage.

 The English Premier League champions, led by manager Enzo Maresca, showcased resilience as Cole Palmer scored in the 16th minute and an own goal by Agustin Giay in the 83rd minute, overcoming Palmeiras’ Estevao’s 53rd-minute strike. The match, attended by 69,000 fans, highlighted Chelsea’s tactical dominance, with 58% possession and 12 shots on target against Palmeiras’ 6.

Palmeiras, the 2022 Copa Libertadores winners, pressed late but couldn’t breach Chelsea’s defense, anchored by goalkeeper Robert Sánchez’s five saves. The win marks Chelsea’s third Club World Cup appearance, following their 2012 triumph, and sets up a semifinal clash against Fluminense on July 7 in Miami. 

FIFA data confirms Chelsea’s 75% win rate in knockout competitions this year, while Palmeiras’ coach Abel Ferreira lamented missed chances, noting a 40% conversion rate. Chelsea’s squad, boosted by £200 million in summer signings, aims for a historic double, with fans optimistic after a 2024-2025 league title.