The highly anticipated clash between Chelsea and Los Angeles FC in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup takes place on June 16 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This encounter marks the first ever competitive meeting between the two sides and is set to be a fascinating contest between the Europa Conference League champions and the U.S. Open Cup winners.
Chelsea arrive as strong favorites, boasting a squad that blends youthful energy with experienced international stars. The Blues finished fourth in the Premier League and capped their domestic season with a 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the Conference League final. Manager Enzo Maresca has integrated several new signings, including centre-back Mamadou Sarr, midfielder Dario Essugo, and forward Liam Delap, all of whom are expected to play significant roles.
Los Angeles FC, meanwhile, enter the match on a nine-game unbeaten run in all competitions, highlighting their attacking prowess but also exposing defensive vulnerabilities, having kept just one clean sheet in that span. Their squad features notable veterans, including former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud and ex-Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
:
-
New signings Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo, and Liam Delap are included in the squad.
-
Wesley Fofana remains sidelined with a long-term thigh injury.
-
Mykhailo Mudryk is suspended due to a doping violation.
-
Djordje Petrovic is omitted as he seeks a transfer.
:
-
Odin Holm is out with a leg injury.
-
Javairo Dilrosun has joined on loan and could feature.
-
Olivier Giroud, at 38, continues to lead the line and recently scored in LAFC’s last match.
-
Hugo Lloris brings Premier League experience, having faced Chelsea 19 times with Tottenham
| Chelsea (4-2-3-1) | LAFC (4-3-3) |
|---|---|
| Jorgensen (GK) | Lloris (GK) |
| Cucurella | Palencia |
| Adarabioyo | Segura |
| Badiashile/Colwill | Marlon |
| Gusto | Hollingshead |
| Dewsbury-Hall/Caicedo | Tillman |
| Essugo/Lavia | Jesus |
| George/Madueke | Delgado |
| Palmer | Yeboah/Dilrosun |
| Neto | Giroud |
| Delap | Bouanga |
-
: Unbeaten in 8 of their last 9 competitive matches. Strong home record with an 80% win rate at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium (neutral venue for this tournament).
-
: Unbeaten in their last 9 matches, scoring 13 goals in their last 5 games, but only one clean sheet in that span.
-
: Both teams have high-scoring potential. LAFC have scored in both halves in 60% of recent games, while Chelsea have a +2 goal advantage at this venue
-
: Cole Palmer leads Chelsea in goals (15) and assists (8), while Denis Bouanga is LAFC’s top scorer (8) and main attacking threat
Chelsea are expected to control possession with their dynamic midfield and use the creativity of Cole Palmer and the pace of their wingers to exploit LAFC’s defensive frailties. LAFC, however, possess a dangerous counter-attack, with Bouanga and Giroud capable of punishing any lapses at the back. The experience of Lloris in goal and Giroud up front gives LAFC a composed spine, but Chelsea’s overall squad depth and quality make them favorites
Most analysts and betting markets back Chelsea to secure a win, with predictions ranging from 2-1 to 3-1 in favor of the Blues. LAFC’s recent form and attacking talent suggest they will get on the scoresheet, but Chelsea’s superior midfield and attacking options should see them through to victory.
| Category | Chelsea | Los Angeles FC |
|---|---|---|
| Recent Form | 8W-1D-1L (last 10) | 5W-5D-0L (last 10) |
| Top Scorer | Cole Palmer (15) | Denis Bouanga (8) |
| Key Absentees | Fofana, Mudryk | Odin Holm |
| Notable Veterans | Palmer, Caicedo, Lloris | Giroud, Lloris |
| Predicted Score | 3-1 (majority view) | 1-3 (underdog) |
Chelsea are tipped to start their Club World Cup campaign with a solid victory, but LAFC’s attacking quality ensures this fixture will be anything but routine.
