Posted: Saturday, July 5, 2025. 7:19 am CST.
Cole Palmer scored the opening goal for Chelsea. Photo Credit: FIFA Club World Cup/DAZN
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Chelsea secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazilian giants Palmeiras in a tense quarter-final clash at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Friday night.
Palmeiras strike early
The Blues wasted no time asserting themselves, with Cole Palmer opening the scoring in the 16th minute. The young English forward latched onto a clever through ball and calmly slotted past the Palmeiras goalkeeper, giving Chelsea an early advantage and silencing the vocal South American contingent in the crowd.
Estêvão levels for Palmeiras
Palmeiras responded with renewed intensity after the break. Their persistence paid off in the 53rd minute when teenage sensation Estêvão, named Player of the Match, curled a brilliant effort into the top corner, leveling the score and reigniting the match. The goal marked a turning point as both sides pushed for a winner in an increasingly physical encounter.
Late Drama: Giay’s own goal seals it
Just as extra time loomed, Chelsea found their breakthrough in the 83rd minute—albeit in fortuitous fashion. A dangerous cross into the box caused confusion in the Palmeiras defense, and right-back Agustín Giay inadvertently turned the ball into his own net under pressure, handing Chelsea the decisive goal.
Composed finish from the Blues
Despite a late surge from Palmeiras, Chelsea held firm in the closing minutes, showcasing defensive discipline and game management to see out the result. The win propels the Premier League side into the semifinals, where they will face the winner of the upcoming quarter-final between Al Ahly and Urawa Red Diamonds.
With their eyes now set on the semifinal, Chelsea continue their quest for a second Club World Cup title, having last lifted the trophy in 2021.
Team Goalscorers Final Score
Palmeiras Estêvão (53′) 1
Chelsea Palmer (16′), Giay (OG 83′) 2
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The post FIFA Club World Cup: Chelsea edge Palmeiras 2-1 to book spot in Semifinals appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Saturday, July 5, 2025. 7:19 am CST. Cole Palmer scored the opening goal for Chelsea. Photo Credit: FIFA Club World Cup/DAZN By Rubén Morales Iglesias:
The post FIFA Club World Cup: Chelsea edge Palmeiras 2-1 to book spot in Semifinals appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.