Chelsea take on Brazilian giants Flamengo in a key FIFA Club World Cup clash on Friday in Philadelphia, with both teams eyeing a place in the knockout rounds. Enzo Maresca’s side will need to be at their best as they prepare to rotate their squad for this crucial test.
Match Overview
Chelsea began their Club World Cup campaign with a composed 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC in Atlanta. While they handled their MLS opponents with relative ease, facing Flamengo — the current leaders of the Brazilian top flight — promises a significantly tougher challenge.
Flamengo are renowned for their technical quality, pace in attack, and intensity in midfield, meaning Chelsea can expect a much more open and high-level contest. A win would all but seal progression for the Blues, while Flamengo are just as eager to assert their status on the global stage.
Team News
Head coach Enzo Maresca confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Chelsea would make several changes to the side that beat LAFC, citing the tight match schedule and the need to manage fitness levels across the squad.
Reece James and Romeo Lavia, both returning from injury layoffs, were taken off at halftime in the last match to manage their workloads. Moises Caicedo, who has logged heavy minutes throughout the season and international duty, is also expected to be rested for this one.
Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella, and Pedro Neto all completed the full 90 minutes on Monday and could be rotated to keep them fresh. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez is expected to retain his place.
Flamengo, who are yet to play in this tournament, are likely to field their strongest XI. Their star-studded squad includes the likes of Giorgian De Arrascaeta, Gabriel Barbosa, and David Luiz. Head coach Tite will want his side to seize the initiative from the first whistle.
Tactical Review
Maresca’s Chelsea have focused on structured buildup from the back, positional discipline in midfield, and aggressive pressing out of possession. Rotation is expected in central areas, possibly opening up opportunities for fresher legs like Dario Essugo and Cole Palmer.
Flamengo typically adopt a more expansive 4-2-3-1 shape with fluid movement in attack. Their full-backs push high, while playmaker De Arrascaeta often pulls the strings. Controlling midfield will be key for both sides.
How to Watch
This FIFA Club World Cup Group Stage fixture will be broadcast live on FIFA+, with kickoff set for 8:00 PM WAT (7:00 PM BST / 2:00 PM local time) on Friday, June 20, 2025.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Flamengo 1-1 Chelsea
With Chelsea managing their squad and Flamengo entering fresh and motivated, this game is likely to be evenly contested. Both teams have the quality to score, but neither will want to risk too much, setting the stage for a competitive draw that leaves the group wide open.