Fluminense vs Chelsea Prediction: The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semifinal showdown between Fluminense and Chelsea is scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA on Tuesday, July 8.
Both sides have exhibited strength and quality to advance this far, with Chelsea standing out as a Premier League powerhouse and Fluminense proving their class as a strong Brazilian outfit. The victor will advance to the final to meet either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain, with $30 million in prize money on the line.

Fluminense have been outstanding throughout the tournament, staying unbeaten in their past 8 games across all competitions. Their path to the semifinals featured an impressive 2-0 win against Inter Milan in the Round of 16 and a narrow 2-1 triumph over Al Hilal in the quarterfinals.
Chelsea, under Enzo Maresca's leadership, have managed a tough journey to the semifinals. After a 3-1 loss to Flamengo in the group stage, the Blues bounced back emphatically with a 4-1 rout of Benfica and a 2-1 win over Palmeiras in the quarterfinals, courtesy of a late own goal.
Crucial to Fluminense's performance has been the leadership of 40-year-old Thiago Silva, who will go up against his former club Chelsea, supported by veteran keeper Fabio and 37-year-old striker German Cano. Jhon Arias has shined in attack, recording one goal and one assist during the group stage.
However, Fluminense face a few setbacks due to suspensions, as midfielder Matheus Martinelli and defender Juan Pablo Freytes are ruled out due to yellow-card accumulation. Martinelli is also doubtful due to a knock, and Otavio remains sidelined with an Achilles issue. Despite this, left-back Rene is back from suspension and should reinforce the defense.
Chelsea have been prolific in front of goal, scoring nine times across their last three Club World Cup fixtures. Still, they are dealing with injuries and suspensions. Levi Colwill and Liam Delap are suspended for the semifinal due to yellow cards, while Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana are injured. Captain Reece James, who felt discomfort in the warm-up before the Palmeiras match, remains doubtful, with Malo Gusto likely to retain the right-back role if James is unavailable. Romeo Lavia is also a question mark, though Moises Caicedo returns from suspension to fortify the midfield. New recruit Joao Pedro made a strong impression off the bench against Palmeiras and could earn a starting spot.
Fluminense Predicted XI (3-5-2): Fabio; Ignacio, Thiago Silva, Rene; Samuel Xavier, Fecundo Bernal, Hercules, Nonato, Gabriel Fuentes; Jhon Arias, German Cano
Chelsea Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Robert Sanchez; Malo Gusto, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevor Chalobah, Marc Cucurella; Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer; Joao Pedro
Chelsea have a mixed history against Brazilian clubs in the Club World Cup, registering two victories and two defeats, including a recent group-stage loss to Flamengo. Fluminense, on their part, have taken on English clubs 11 times in total, winning five and losing five, though their sole Club World Cup match versus an English team ended in a 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in 2023.
Fluminense are expected to rely on a disciplined defense to stifle Chelsea and look to counter using Arias and Cano. Thiago Silva's deep understanding of Chelsea's system could assist Fluminense in breaking down attacks. Meanwhile, Chelsea are expected to dominate possession and utilize wing speed through Neto and Palmer. Moises Caicedo's presence will be vital in disrupting Fluminense's play in midfield.
That said, Chelsea's superior squad depth, current form, and knack for delivering in high-pressure situations give them the edge. A close game is likely, potentially extending to extra time, where Chelsea are tipped to come out on top.
Chelsea
Chelsea
Fluminense 1:2 Chelsea