Introduction

While Chelsea may be seen as the frontrunner, we can't overlook Fluminense's knack for rising to the occasion when the pressure's on. As both teams vie for a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final, get ready for an electrifying showdown at MetLife Stadium. Fluminense wants to improve on their 2023 runner-up result, while Chelsea, who won the 2021 tournament, is aiming for a second world championship. Can Flu surprise another European powerhouse, or will the Blues solidify their supremacy on the international scene?

Current Form and Road to the Semi-Final

Fluminense

• Group Stage Performance: Secured 2nd place in Group F, earning 5 points
  • Played to a 0-0 draw with Borussia Dortmund
  • Defeated Ulsan HD with a score of 4-2
  • Ended in a 0-0 draw against Mamelodi Sundowns

• Round of 16: 2-0 win vs. Inter Milan

• Quarter-Final: 2-1 win vs. Al-Hilal

• Current Streak: Unbeaten in last 11 matches (W8, D3)

Fluminense has defied expectations this tournament. Under Renato Gaucho, now in his 7th stint as head coach, Flu have built a gritty, defensively compact, and dangerous counter-attacking side. With veterans like Thiago Silva and goal scorers like Jhon Arias and Germán Cano, this team should not be dismissed.

Chelsea

• Group Stage Performance: 2nd in Group D (6 points)
  • Win 3-0 vs. Auckland City
  • Loss 1-3 vs. Flamengo

• Round of 16: 4-1 win vs. Benfica (after extra time)

• Quarter-Final: 2-1 win vs. Palmeiras

• Current Form: W W L W W W

Chelsea have entered the semi-finals with confidence and attacking flair. Manager Enzo Maresca has successfully combined youth and experience to produce a team capable of causing harm. With players like Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, and Moises Caicedo in form, the Blues look poised for another title run.

Head-to-Head Record

This will be the first-ever competitive meeting between Fluminense and Chelsea.

Chelsea’s record vs. Brazilian teams:

• Played: 4

• Wins: 2

• Losses: 2

Fluminense’s only meeting with an English side came in 2023 when they lost 0-4 to Manchester City in the final.

Team News and Lineups

Fluminense Team News & Predicted XI

• Suspended: Matheus Martinelli, Juan Pablo Freytes

• Injured: None

• Available: Rene returns from suspension.

• Predicted XI (3-5-2):

• Fabio (GK); Ignacio, Thiago Silva, Fuentes; Xavier, Hercules, Bernal, Nonato, Rene; Arias, Cano

• Key Players: Jhon Arias, Germán Cano, Thiago Silva

Chelsea Team News & Predicted XI

• Suspended: Liam Delap, Levi Colwill

• Injured/Doubtful: Reece James, Romeo Lavia, Benoit Badiashile

• Ineligible: Jamie Bynoe-Gittens

• Predicted XI (4-2-3-1):

• Sanchez (GK); Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Neto, Palmer, Nkunku; Joao Pedro

• Key Players: Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Enzo Fernandez

Tactical Analysis & Key Players

Fluminense: Compact & Clinical

Renato Gaucho’s tactical flexibility has been impressive. Switching to a 3-5-2 formation in the knockouts allowed Thiago Silva to anchor a resilient backline. Their midfield trio—especially Hercules—has proven adept at transition play. With Arias providing width and flair and Cano always a goal threat, Chelsea’s defense must stay alert.

Chelsea: Depth and Attacking Variety

Chelsea really excels with their smooth midfield transitions and aggressive pressing. Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez provide that much-needed control and stability. The rise of Cole Palmer as an attacking midfielder has been pivotal, and let’s not forget Pedro Neto, whose direct style on the wing keeps defenders on their toes. Joao Pedro’s link-up play will be crucial in the absence of Delap.

Match Prediction

Prediction: Fluminense 1-2 Chelsea (after extra time)

The game is likely to be tight and tactical. Fluminense have shown tremendous resilience and are capable of scoring. However, Chelsea’s depth and attacking quality give them the edge, even if they have to wait until extra time to seal it.

Betting Tips & Odds

• Chelsea to Qualify: 2/7 (Clear favorites)

• Fluminense to Qualify: 5/2

• Both Teams to Score: YES @ -110

• Correct Score Tip: Chelsea 2-1 Fluminense

• Goals Over/Under: Over 2.5 @ +100 / Under 2.5 @ -139

• Top Value Tip: Chelsea to win in extra time @ +450

Current Winning Odds from Stake.com

According to Stake.com, the winning odds for the match between Chelsea and Fluminense are;

• Fluminense: 5.40

• Chelsea: 1.69

• Draw: 3.80

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Conclusion

Get ready for an edge-of-your-seat semi-final as Chelsea goes head-to-head with Fluminense, the unexpected team from Brazil, in a match that’s bound to be thrilling. Fluminense is capable of stepping up to the plate, so don't discount them even though Chelsea is the clear favorite in the betting odds. With a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final up for grabs, there will be an electrifying atmosphere at MetLife Stadium.

Final Score Prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Fluminense