Chelsea advanced to the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Brazil’s Palmeiras in the quarter-final. The victory sets up a high-stakes semi-final clash with another Brazilian side, Fluminense, on 9 July.
The Blues got off to a solid start when Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 16th minute, putting Chelsea 1-0 ahead. However, Estevão brought Palmeiras back into the contest with an equaliser in the 53rd minute. Just as the game looked to be heading towards extra time, a late own goal by Agustin Gray in the 83rd minute handed Chelsea the win.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the game, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca shared his thoughts on the performance and the flow of the match.
“I think in the first half we were in control of the game. We didn’t concede anything. We scored and could have scored more,” Maresca said. “Second half, they started better and scored. The game changed a little – the dynamic shifted. But then, in the last 20-25 minutes, we were in control again. I think we deserved to win the game without being lucky.”
“We decided to start with Andrey” – Maresca
On his decision to start with Andrey Santos, Maresca explained: “We decided to start with Andrey. We know each other much better now compared to one year ago. With a different structure and playing style, the players are improving day by day.”
Chelsea will now prepare to face Fluminense, who beat Al-Hilal in their quarter-final clash.
“Until today, I was focused on Palmeiras. From tomorrow, I will focus on Fluminense,” Maresca said. “They are very well organised, have some good players, and the manager is doing a fantastic job. The energy from the Brazilian teams in this tournament has been high. It will be a tough challenge.”
Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-final on 9 July.
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