Fluminense vs Chelsea Prediction & Preview | Club World Cup Semi-Final 2025

An exciting semi-final awaits as Brazilian club Fluminense faces Premier League side Chelsea on Tuesday, July 8, in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Both teams are just one step away from making history with a place in the first-ever final of the revamped tournament.

While Chelsea enter as narrow favorites, Fluminense have emerged as this year’s surprise package. The South American club has impressed with solid performances and are now the last non-European team standing. Meanwhile, Chelsea’s run to the semis has been unexpected given their fourth-place Premier League finish last season.

Team News & Lineups

Fluminense are dealing with a couple of setbacks ahead of the big game. Key players Juan Pablo Freytes and Matheus Martinelli are suspended and will miss out. Midfielder Hercules, who scored the winner in their last outing, is expected to be named in the starting XI as a replacement.

Manager Renato Gaucho has adapted well tactically, switching to a three-man backline during the knockout phase. Veteran defender Thiago Silva, formerly of Chelsea, will anchor the defense and face his old club in what promises to be an emotional encounter.

Arias has been instrumental for Fluminense so far, contributing the most shots, key passes, and dribbles for his team in the tournament.

Despite not being tipped as tournament favorites, the Blues now have their eyes set on silverware. New signing Joao Pedro could be given a start after impressing off the bench in their recent match against Palmeiras.

Betting Tips

• Chelsea to Win & Both Teams to Score – 3/1
• Over 2.5 Goals – 11/10
• Joao Pedro to Score or Assist Anytime – 11/10
  (Odds from Ladbrokes. Subject to change. 18+ Only. Gamble responsibly.)

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Key Match Stats

• Fluminense have conceded more than one goal in only one of their last five Club World Cup fixtures.
• Chelsea’s only loss in this tournament came against Brazilian opposition.
• Two of Fluminense’s last three matches have seen under 2.5 total goals.

Fluminese vs Chelsea Prediction

Fluminense 1-1 Chelsea

This one could go down to the wire. Chelsea needed extra time to beat Benfica, and Fluminense showed strong resilience in their last outing. Expect a closely contested battle, potentially requiring more than 90 minutes to find a winner.

Pre-Match Odds

According to Ladbrokes, Chelsea are tipped to reach the final:

• Fluminense Win: 4/1 (20% chance)
• Draw: 27/10 (27% chance)
• Chelsea Win: 4/6 (60% chance)

These odds suggest Chelsea fans can be cautiously optimistic, but Fluminense’s current form makes them anything but an easy opponent.

Player to Watch: Joao Pedro

Joao Pedro is one to keep your eyes on. After making an impact from the bench last match, he is likely to start this time. His creativity and energy could be key in unlocking Fluminense’s solid defense. This match also offers him a chance to stake a claim in Chelsea’s future attacking plans.

With a place in the Club World Cup final at stake, both teams have everything to play for. While Chelsea bring European pedigree, Fluminense are hungry underdogs with momentum on their side. Expect a tactical and emotional clash — one that might just need penalties to decide.