Chelsea face Fluminense in Club World Cup semi final showdown in New Jersey | OneFootball

Fluminense and Chelsea Set for High-Stakes Semi Final Clash in New Jersey

Chelsea return to the global stage on Tuesday night as they take on Brazilian side Fluminense in a compelling Club World Cup semi final clash at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. In what is being billed as a contest rich with storylines, one of the most poignant will centre around Thiago Silva, who prepares to face Chelsea for the first time since rejoining his boyhood club last summer.

Now 40, the veteran defender has drawn plaudits for his assured displays throughout the competition. Tasked with leading Fluminense’s backline against his former teammates, Silva adds a narrative thread of sentiment and steel to what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.

The semi final between Fluminense and Chelsea is scheduled for an 8pm BST kick-off on Tuesday 8 July 2025 at the MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey.

UK fans will not be able to watch the match live on television. However, a live stream will be available via the DAZN website, free with registration, with coverage beginning at 7pm BST.

Photo: IMAGO

Team News Shapes Line-ups on Both Sides

Fluminense will be without two key players for the semi final clash. Mathues Martinelli, who netted the winning goal against Al-Hilal, and Juan Freytes, both picked up bookings in the quarter final and are suspended. However, Rene returns from suspension and is expected to provide a boost to the back four.

All eyes will be on Thiago Silva, who is set to start against the club he served with distinction. The former Chelsea captain is likely to marshal a defensive line that will look to frustrate a Chelsea side full of attacking potential.

For the Premier League side, Nicolas Jackson is tipped to start up front, although manager Enzo Maresca may opt to hand Joao Pedro his first start since joining the club. The Brazilian striker replaced Liam Delap in the last round and could be given the nod in a match of significant magnitude. Delap will play no part after receiving a second yellow card of the tournament, ruling him out through suspension.

Midfield enforcer Moises Caicedo is expected to return to the starting XI after serving a one-game ban, and his presence could prove crucial in breaking up Fluminense’s rhythm in the centre of the pitch.

Photo: IMAGO

First Meeting Holds Weight for Both Sides

This fixture marks the first ever meeting between Chelsea and Fluminense. Historically, Chelsea have had mixed fortunes against Brazilian opposition in the Club World Cup, winning one and losing one of their two previous encounters. This history, combined with Fluminense’s unbeaten run in the tournament, adds a layer of unpredictability to proceedings.

Fluminense’s journey to this stage has not been short of drama or quality. Their round of 16 victory over Inter Milan showed not only resilience but also tactical maturity. They are a side that relishes the underdog tag and has shown time and again that they can rise to the occasion.

Chelsea, on the other hand, are seen as marginal favourites and will need to approach this semi final with focus and clarity. Enzo Maresca’s squad is built on technical quality and quick transitions, and if the likes of Caicedo and Cole Palmer can influence the tempo, the Blues may find the breakthrough they need.

“Chelsea’s record against Brazilian opposition at the Club World Cup so far is; played two, won one and lost one. Therefore Maresca’s side will know they are in for a tough game.”

That much is clear, especially with Fluminense arriving full of confidence and tactical discipline. Chelsea have superior depth and individual talent, but they must be wary of the Brazilian side’s ability to frustrate and capitalise on moments.

Ultimately, if Chelsea can maintain composure and avoid lapses in concentration, their extra touch of quality in key areas could be enough to carry them through to the final.