FIFA Club World Cup Semifinal Preview: Chelsea vs. Fluminense

Jul 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chelsea FC midfielder Cole Palmer (10) shoots at goal from a free kick in the second half against SE Palmeiras during a quarterfinal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

The stage is set for a thrilling semi-final clash at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as Chelsea take on Fluminense. Both teams have navigated a challenging path to reach this point, and will be eager to secure a spot in the final.

Check out EasySportz for in-depth coverage of the FIFA Club World Cup. Here is the preview of the other Club World Cup semifinal, Real Madrid versus PSG.

FIFA Club World Cup Semifinal Match Details

Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET (Eastern Time, USA) / 12:00 PM PT (Pacific Time, USA) / 8:00 PM BST (London)
Location: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA

Jul 4, 2025; Orlando, Florida, USA; Fluminense FC midfielder Hercules (35) celebrates after scoring a goal during the second half aAl Hilal FC during a quarterfinal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Match Preview

Chelsea, representing Europe as the UEFA Champions League winners, come into this match having overcome Palmeiras 2-1 in their quarter-final. They’ve shown resilience throughout the tournament, despite suffering a group stage defeat to Flamengo. The Blues will be without Liam Delap and Levi Colwill due to suspension, and captain Reece James is a doubt after an injury in the warm-up before their last match. This will force manager Enzo Maresca to make some adjustments to his lineup.

Fluminense, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, have been something of a “surprise package” in the FIFA Club World Cup, making it to the semi-finals after a 2-1 victory over Al Hilal in their quarter-final. The Brazilian side boasts a mix of experienced players, including 40-year-old Thiago Silva (a former Chelsea defender), and emerging talent. They’ve demonstrated strong defensive organization and a clinical edge in front of goal.

This semi-final promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. Chelsea will likely rely on their technical quality and attacking firepower, while Fluminense will look to exploit any defensive vulnerabilities and leverage their collective spirit.