Enzo Maresca prepares to guide "Chelsea" into their first Club World Cup 2025 match against "Los Angeles FC" after completing a historic UEFA tournament sweep. The Italian manager's debut season with the London club culminated in a Conference League triumph over Betis (4-1), making "Chelsea" the first team to win all four major UEFA competitions.
"The team finished the season strongly with eight wins from nine matches, which gives us confidence heading into this tournament," an upbeat Maresca could note about his squad's current form.
The Group D opener is scheduled for Monday, June 16, at 22:00 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, with Venezuelan referee Jesus Valenzuela officiating. For "Chelsea," this marks their third Club World Cup appearance, having won the tournament in 2021 and finished as runners-up in 2013.
Interestingly, "Los Angeles FC" secured their spot in dramatic fashion. The American side only qualified after Mexican club Leon was disqualified due to multi-club ownership violations, then defeated "America" 2-1 in overtime in a play-in match. Not bad for a last-minute addition!
Steven Cherundolo's California-based team arrives in excellent form – unbeaten in 10 matches and scoring at least two goals in each recent game. Currently sitting sixth in the MLS Western Conference, LAFC boasts World Cup winners Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud in their squad.
To advance from Group D, "Chelsea" must also face Brazilian powerhouse "Flamengo" and Tunisian champions "Esperance" in upcoming matches. Despite never having played against each other before, Monday's contest promises to be competitive.
Expected lineups show "Chelsea" likely fielding Sanchez in goal with James, Adarabioyo, Badiashile, and Cucurella in defense. Lafia and Essugo may anchor midfield, while Madueke, Palmer, Neto, and Delap complete the attack. For LAFC, Lloris will start between the posts with Palencia, Segura, Marlon, and Hollingshead forming the backline. Tillman, Jesus, and Delgado should control midfield, with Yeboa, Giroud, and Bouanga leading the attack.
Can the American underdogs shock one of Europe's elite clubs? While "Chelsea" enters as favorites, "Los Angeles FC's" recent form suggests they won't go down without scoring at least once.
