Club World Cup 2025: Fluminense-Chelsea, the likely lineups

One of the most unexpected surprises of the Club World Cup comes from Brazil: Fluminense deservedly earned a place in the semifinals, where they will face Chelsea led by Enzo Maresca.

Fluminense stunned everyone with a brilliant run, eliminating two level opponents: Simone Inzaghi’s Inter Milan and Al Hilal. Performances built on proactive play, high pressing and enviable physical condition. Leading the team, a simply monumental Thiago Silva, back in the jersey of the club that launched him, now the authentic technical and emotional leader of the group.

On the other side will be a Chelsea that, while advancing in the tournament, has shown some cracks. The Blues overcame Palmeiras in the quarters, but already by the round of 16 against Benfica and in the group stage against Flamengo they had shown difficulties, struggling more than expected.

On paper, the technical difference between the two teams is clear, with the English starting as favorites. But Fluminense has shown they are not afraid of anyone, and with such an inspired Thiago Silva and a compact and courageous team, dreaming of the final is no longer a’utopia.

The likely lineups

Fluminense (3-5-2): Fábio; Ignacio, Silva, Fuentes; Xavier, Hercules, Bernal, Nonato, René; Arias, Cano. Coach: Gaúcho.

Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sánchez; Gusto, Tosin, Chalobah, Cucurella; Fernández, Caicedo; Neto, Palmer, Nkunku; Pedro. Coach: Maresca.