Jul 4, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Chelsea FC defender Malo Gusto (27) celebrates with teammates after an own goal by SE Palmeiras in the second half during a quarterfinal match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

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Chelsea Advance to FIFA Club World Cup Semi-Final With 2–1 Victory Over Palmeiras

With Chelsea's victory, it has been confirmed that three of the four semi-finalists at the Club World Cup will be European clubs.

Chelsea have booked their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal after a gritty 2-1 victory over Brazilian giants Palmeiras on Friday night at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia. Chelsea attacker Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 16th minute as he finished superbly past Weverton after a precise through-ball from Trevoh Chalobah.

However, the story of the night was Palmeiras’ 18-year-old star Estevao Willian. The teenager announced himself to his future club in style by scoring a superb leveller from a tight angle in the 53rd minute. Estevao is set to join Chelsea in a £52m deal. The Brazilian winger found space ahead of Levi Colwill before smashing his effort off the bar and past Robert Sanchez.

UP THE CHELS!!! 🔵✊ pic.twitter.com/L1PwOYBSBb
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 5, 2025

Chelsea’s New Signing Joao Pedro Impresses on Debut

Despite the setback, Chelsea continued to push forward. Chelsea’s new signing Joao Pedro made his debut in the match after a £55m move from Brighton. Coming on as a second-half substitute, Pedro impressed with his energy and close control. His sharp movement and link-up play nearly resulted in a goal. His presence up-front added to the Blues’ attacking threat alongside Pedro Neto and Palmer.

Chelsea’s breakthrough came late when Malo Gusto’s 83rd-minute strike from a short corner took a double deflection off defender Agustin Giay and goalkeeper Weverton before rolling into the net. FIFA later confirmed the goal as a Weverton own goal.

With Chelsea’s victory, it has now been confirmed that three of the four semi-finalists at the Club World Cup will be European clubs. The result means Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-final on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Also Read: UEFA Fines Chelsea, Barcelona and More for FFP Breaches in Record Clampdown

However, there was a downside for Chelsea with Liam Delap and Levi Colwill picking up suspensions due to yellow cards. Meanwhile, Chelsea captain Reece James suffered an injury during the warm-up.

2025 FIFA Club World Cup

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FIFA Club World Cup

FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Palmeiras

Palmeiras vs Chelsea

Abhinav Goel

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I am a soccer writer at The PlayOffs, covering everything from match analysis to transfer buzz and tactical deep dives. Ever since I was a kid, soccer has been more than just a sport to me—it’s been an obsession. Playing and watching the game from a young age fueled my passion, eventually leading me into the world of sports media and betting. Now, I get to analyze the sport I love and bring the latest updates to fans worldwide.