Chelsea begin their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign against Los Angeles FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Group D encounter pits a European powerhouse against an ambitious MLS side on American soil.
Chelsea: Ready for Another Shot at Glory
The Blues come into the tournament after a strong Premier League finish and a UEFA Conference League title win. With Enzo Maresca at the helm, Chelsea are aiming to add another trophy to their growing collection.
One of the standout figures for Chelsea is Cole Palmer. Since making his debut for the club in 2023, he has recorded 56 goal involvements in all competitions, including 37 goals and 19 assists. Only Mohamed Salah has more contributions in that span. Palmer also made headlines in the Conference League final with two assists in their victory over Real Betis.
Supporting him in midfield will be Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo. Fernández, Argentina’s breakout star at the 2022 World Cup, adds control and creativity, while Caicedo brings defensive strength and led the Premier League in ball recoveries last season.
LAFC: Underdogs with Experience
Los Angeles FC secured their place in the Club World Cup by beating Club América 2-1 in a playoff match. Although not as decorated as Chelsea, LAFC have experience and quality in key positions.
Hugo Lloris, the veteran French goalkeeper, brings leadership to the backline. He holds the record for most international appearances for France and spent over a decade in the Premier League with Tottenham. Up front, Olivier Giroud will be a familiar face to Chelsea fans. The Frenchman scored 39 goals during his time at Stamford Bridge and helped the club win the FA Cup, Champions League, and Europa League.
Denis Bouanga is LAFC’s main attacking weapon, with 18 goal involvements in 22 matches this season. His speed and sharp finishing make him a player to watch.
Opta Prediction: Chelsea Heavily Favoured
According to the Opta supercomputer, Chelsea have a 72.0 percent chance of winning. LAFC’s chances are just 11.6 percent, with a draw occurring 16.4 percent of the time. Chelsea are tipped to qualify from Group D with a 93.3 percent probability. LAFC stand at 35.4 percent, while Flamengo lead their competitors with 51.4 percent. Espérance de Tunis round out the group with a 20.0 percent chance.
Chelsea Squad:
Robert Sánchez, Reece James, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella, Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Trevoh Chalobah, Malo Gusto, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Filip Jörgensen, and others
Head Coach: Enzo Maresca
LAFC Squad:
Hugo Lloris, Olivier Giroud, Denis Bouanga, Yaw Yeboah, Jeremy Ebobisse, Marlon, Ryan Hollingshead, Sergi Palencia, Frankie Amaya, and others
Head Coach: Steve Cherundolo
Final Prediction: Chelsea should have too much firepower and depth for LAFC, but the American side’s veterans could keep the game competitive early on. Expect a Chelsea win, but not without resistance.
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