The stage is set for a thrilling triple-header as the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 rolls on in the United States. Fans can look forward to a packed schedule today with three blockbuster clashes: Chelsea vs LAFC, Boca Juniors vs Benfica, and Flamengo vs Esperance de Tunis. Here’s what to expect from each fixture:
Chelsea vs LAFC
Kick-off: Group D opener
Venue: Pasadena Rose Bowl
Chelsea begin their Club World Cup journey with a matchup against hosts LAFC. Fresh off a Europa Conference League triumph and a top-five Premier League finish, the Blues arrive in high spirits under new boss Enzo Maresca. While several first-team regulars like Sterling and Joao Felix are absent, the spotlight is on new signings including striker Liam Delap and midfielder Dario Essugo. Cole Palmer dons the no.10 shirt for the first time, while other new faces like keeper Mike Penders and defender Mamadou Sarr will look to impress. With a deep squad and serious European pedigree, Chelsea should have too much firepower for LAFC, even on American soil.
Prediction: Chelsea 3–0 LAFC
Boca Juniors vs Benfica
Kick-off: Group B encounter
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
Boca Juniors enter this match high on confidence after a solid Apertura campaign, while Benfica are still licking their wounds after narrowly missing out on the Portuguese title. Under manager Bruno Lage, Benfica have shown improvement, but Boca, led by the returning Miguel Ángel Russo, will look to frustrate and counter. Expect a tense, tactical battle with limited chances. A moment of brilliance from Benfica could be the difference in this closely contested affair.
Prediction: Boca Juniors 0–1 Benfica
Flamengo vs Espérance de Tunis
Kick-off: Group D showdown
Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo begin their Club World Cup campaign with high expectations. Currently leading the Brazilian top flight under new coach Filipe Luís, the Rio giants are in sizzling form, evident from their recent 5-0 rout of Fortaleza. Facing them are African stalwarts Esperance de Tunis, but the Tunisians are likely to struggle against Flamengo’s pace and technical prowess.
Prediction: Flamengo 2–0 Espérance de Tunis