Jun 28, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chelsea FC defender Reece James (24) celebrates scoring their first goal during a round of 16 match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Agustin Marcarian-Reuters via Imagn Images

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Chelsea To Battle Palmeiras in First 2025 Club World Cup Quarter-Final

The last time that Chelsea and Palmeiras met was in the final of the Club World Cup in 2021.

In the sweltering heat of the American summer, the FIFA Club World Cup has provided no shortage of drama. Fans have witnessed everything from thunderstorm evacuations to last-gasp equalisers. The pressure of intense knockout football was felt for the first time on Saturday as four teams clashed in the Club World Cup Round of 16.

After an evenful Saturday, the first quarter-final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is officially set with Chelsea and Palmeiras set to clash for a spot in the last four of the tournament. Chelsea booked their place after an extraordinary 4-1 extra-time victory over Benfica in Charlotte.

Reece James’ stunning free-kick in the 64th minute initially put the Blues ahead. However, a late penalty from Angel Di Maria following a Malo Gusto handball forced extra time after a near two-hour storm delay. Gianluca Prestianni was then sent off early in extra time. Chelsea capitalised on their numerical advantage with goals from Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall to secure the win and progress to the quarter-finals.

Next round: Chelsea vs Palmeiras. 🏆🔛 pic.twitter.com/rhfPO8GywN
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 29, 2025

Palmeiras Becomes First Team To Reach Quarterfinals

Earlier in the day, Palmeiras became the first team to reach the quarter-finals after a dramatic 1-0 extra-time win over Botafogo in Philadelphia. Substitute Paulinho was the hero for the Brazilian champions, scoring the decisive goal in the 100th minute with a low finish into the far corner.

The win came despite Palmeiras finishing the match with 10 men following a red card to captain Gustavo Gomez just minutes after the goal. Botafogo pushed for an equaliser late on but could not break through, sending Palmeiras through to the last eight.

Chelsea and Palmeiras will now meet in Philadelphia on Friday in what promises to be a compelling contest between the Conference League winners and the Brazilian giants. Notably, the last time these two sides met was in the final of the Club World Cup in 2021. The Blues lifted the title in 2021 with a 2-1 win over Palmeiras with Romelu Lukaku and Kai Havertz scoring the goals for Chelsea.

2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Chelsea

FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Palmeiras

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.