Chelsea and Palmeiras are set to clash in Philadelphia on the Fourth of July in a rematch of the 2022 Club World Cup final. This tournament has been full of surprises, with teams like Al Hilal and Fluminense overcoming European opposition. Chelsea will be eager to avoid becoming the latest European side to exit the competition unexpectedly. New signing Joao Pedro has joined the squad, although he may not be ready to play a significant role in this match.
Forward Nicolas Jackson is available again after serving his red card suspension, presenting manager Enzo Maresca with a decision on who will lead the attack. Chelsea will also face Estevao, the young talent who is scheduled to join the Blues after the tournament. For Estevao, this match could be one of his final appearances for Palmeiras, adding an extra layer of motivation.
Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira commented on the situation, stating, “We, him and the club – everyone knew this could happen during the negotiations. Everyone knew he could play. I don`t have to say anything. He knows what he needs to do [Friday]. He has to do his job. I hope he gives his best for the owners of Chelsea and they look at him and his potential and all the quality he has.”
Ferreira added, “It will be an opportunity for him to show how good he is. We will expect his best, the maximum in attack and defense and maybe he will score a goal to give a goodbye to our fans. We helped him to grow as a man and a professional. It could be a moment to give him a goodbye with one amazing game, maybe with one goal.”
Match Information and Odds
- Date: Friday, July 4 | Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Location: Lincoln Financial Field — Philadelphia, PA
- Live stream: Watch on DAZN (for free)
- Odds: Palmeiras +300; Draw +220; Chelsea +100
Last Meeting
This upcoming game marks only the second encounter between Chelsea and Palmeiras, with the first being the 2022 Club World Cup final. That match ended level after normal time, with Romelu Lukaku`s opener being cancelled out by Raphael Veiga. Kai Havertz eventually secured the victory for the Blues in extra time. Given Palmeiras` performance in the current tournament, this match could be just as closely contested.
Predicted Lineups
Palmeiras: Weverton, Joaquin Piquerez, Bruno Fuchs, Micael, Agustin Gray, Emiliano Martinez, Richard Rios, Allan, Muricio, Estevao, Vitor Roque
Chelsea: Rober Sanchez, Marc Cucurella, Tosin, Levi Colwill, Reece James, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Noni Madueke, Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson
Player to Watch
Cole Palmer, Chelsea: Cole Palmer`s recent lack of form has continued into this tournament, with the player often deployed on the wings. As Chelsea prepare for Champions League football next season, their success will significantly depend on his contributions. Getting Palmer back to his best during the Club World Cup would be ideal before the holiday break. He needs more than just the one assist he`s registered so far to build confidence for the new campaign.
Storyline to Watch
Support in the Stadium: South American teams typically receive strong support in these tournaments, but Palmeiras manager Abel Ferreira has specifically called for local Americans to support Palmeiras against the English side. Palmeiras fans are already in Philadelphia following their previous win, and Ferreira welcomes everyone to join them, particularly on Independence Day. He urged, “It can be a good opportunity for the local people to join with us against the English. Tomorrow will be Independence Day… join us, come with us. We need your support!”
Prediction
Assuming favorable conditions without excessive heat, Chelsea is expected to achieve their objective and move closer to the Club World Cup final with a comfortable victory.
Pick: Palmeiras 1, Chelsea 2
Dominic Ashworth