Despite entering the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as underdogs, Fluminense quickly made their mark by defeating formidable opponents like Inter Milan and Al Hilal, one of the tournament’s breakout teams. Their impressive run secured them a spot in the semifinals, where they now face a formidable challenge against Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea, a team renowned for its dynamic offensive play.
Fluminense, one of the top teams in Brazil and a powerhouse in CONMEBOL, entered the Club World Cup not at their peak form. Yet, the seasoned presence of stars like Thiago Silva and Jhon Arias have propelled them to shine brightly in the tournament. The team’s remarkable journey owes much to their cohesion and offensive prowess, forming a unit that’s tough to crack.
Throughout the tournament, Chelsea have encountered two formidable Brazilian teams. They struggled against Flamengo, being defeated, but found success with a crucial victory over Palmeiras at the hour mark. Despite high expectations surrounding the English squad, challenges abound when facing CONMEBOL teams.
Chelsea’s dynamic offense, spearheaded by Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto, needs to prove its capacity to dismantle Fluminense’s solid defense. Additionally, Enzo Maresca’s midfield has shown remarkable solidity, offering the team stability and defensive security. This robust midfield performance has been instrumental in propelling the Blues to the tournament semifinals.
Fluminense lineup vs Chelsea
Fluminense will be without two first-choice players for the semifinals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Juan Pablo Freytes and Matheus Martinelli, who will be out due to accumulation of yellow cards. Two very sensitive absentees, as they are part of the hard core of Renato Gaucho’s team. In addition, Samuel Xavier will be another absence in the starting lineup as he is not at 100%, according to TNT Sports Brazil.
Considering the above, they will field the following lineup: Fabio Deivson; Ignacio, Thiago Silva, Thiago Santos; Claudio Rodrigues ‘Guga’, Hércules, Facundo Bernal, Nonato, Rene; Jhon Arias, German Cano.
Chelsea lineup vs Fluminense
Not only does the Brazilian side arrive with absentees, but Chelsea also face the semifinals missing three key players: Liam Delap, Levi Colwill, and Romeo Lavia. On the upside, Moises Caicedo rejoins the starting lineup after serving a suspension due to accumulated yellow cards. His comeback provides a crucial boost to the starting lineup.
Considering the latter, Chelsea will start with the following starting lineup: Robert Sanchez; Malo Gusto, Trevor Chalobah, Tosin Adarabioyo, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Pedro Neto, Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer; Joao Pedro.