📰 Match Summary
In a thrilling quarterfinal showdown of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Chelsea FC clinched a 2-1 win over Palmeiras, booking a place in the semi-finals against Fluminense. The match was filled with drama, flair, and a dash of luck, as Cole Palmer’s early goal and a late own-goal sealed the Blues’ progression.
Palmeiras’ rising star Estêvão Willian, who is set to join Chelsea next season, scored a stunning equalizer, putting his talent on full display. But an 83rd-minute cross by Malo Gusto, deflected into the net, decided the outcome.
🔥 Key Moments
⚽ 16′ – Goal: Cole Palmer (Chelsea)
The young attacker latched onto a slick pass by Chalobah and tucked the ball into the far corner, putting Chelsea ahead.
⚽ 53′ – Goal: Estêvão Willian (Palmeiras)
The 17-year-old sensation curved in a brilliant equalizer past Robert Sánchez, showcasing why Chelsea invested in his future.
⚽ 83′ – Own Goal: Agustín Giay (Palmeiras)
Malo Gusto’s low cross took a heavy deflection off Giay and past Weverton, gifting Chelsea the winner.
📊 Match Stats
| Category | Chelsea | Palmeiras |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 55% | 45% |
| Shots | 12 | 11 |
| On Target | 5 | 5 |
| Corners | 6 | 4 |
| Fouls | 14 | 16 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 | 2 |
🧠 Tactical Insights
- Chelsea played a high-pressing 4-2-3-1, with Gallagher and Caicedo bossing the midfield.
- Palmeiras responded in the second half with more direct vertical play and greater intensity on the flanks.
- The introduction of Madueke and João Pedro added fresh legs and tempo for Chelsea.
- Gusto’s attacking run down the right and the forced own goal was a direct result of Chelsea’s pressure.
⭐ Standout Performers
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea): Calm under pressure, smart runs, and clinical finishing.
- Estêvão Willian (Palmeiras): A star in the making, left an impression with his world-class goal.
- Malo Gusto (Chelsea): Energetic down the right, decisive in the winning goal.
💬 Manager Comments
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea Coach):
“The boys were composed. Estêvão is a glimpse of Chelsea’s future—what a talent. But I’m proud of how we stayed disciplined and got the result.”
Abel Ferreira (Palmeiras Coach):
“We played well. A deflection cost us, but I’m proud of our fight. Estêvão is going to shine in Europe.”
🏟️ Atmosphere & Fan Reaction
- Crowd: 65,782
- Environment: Electric! Chelsea fans in full voice, Palmeiras fans brought drums, songs, and green smoke.
- Social Buzz: “Only Chelsea wins like this—chaos and beauty in equal parts!” — @BlueLondonFC
“Estêvão is scary good. Can’t believe he’s only 17.” — @FutebolBRNews
🗺️ What’s Next?
Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey on July 8. It’s an all-Brazil-vs-England encounter that promises fireworks.
🧾 Club World Cup Progress
Quarterfinals:
- Chelsea 2 – 1 Palmeiras
- Fluminense 2 – 1 Al Hilal
Upcoming Semi-final:
- Chelsea vs Fluminense
🎯 Final Thoughts
This was more than a win for Chelsea. It was a bold message to global football: youth, structure, and resilience define the new Blues under Maresca. From Palmer’s cool head to Estêvão’s flair, this game had everything.
Chelsea march on, Palmeiras bow out with heads high, and the football world eagerly awaits a fiery semi-final clash in New Jersey.
📽️ Watch Highlights
▶️ Official FIFA YouTube Channel – Chelsea vs Palmeiras Highlights
myNative.in 
Leave a comment