The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues to sizzle in the United States, and the second round of Group D promises fireworks as Flamengo and Chelsea prepare to square off in Philadelphia on Friday. Both clubs come into the fixture riding high after comfortable 2-0 victories in their respective openers, and with only two group spots up for grabs in the knockout stage, this encounter could prove decisive.
While the group standings remain tight, this match is about more than just points. It’s about South American flair against European organization, history versus ambition, and for one player in particular, it’s personal.
Chelsea, the reigning UEFA Conference League champions, got off to a solid but unspectacular start with a 2-0 win over LAFC in Atlanta. Goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez bookended a composed performance that suggested Enzo Maresca’s side is building much-needed cohesion. New arrivals such as Liam Delap and Dario Essugo made strong cameos, hinting at growing depth within the Blues ranks.
On the same day, Flamengo handled their own business with similar efficiency. A 2-0 win over Esperance de Tunis was marked by a standout display from Giorgian de Arrascaeta, while Luiz Araujo added the second. The Rio de Janeiro giants, three-time Copa Libertadores champions, haven’t won the global title since 1981 and are eager to change that on U.S. soil.
The stakes in Friday’s clash at Lincoln Financial Field couldn’t be higher. A win for either team would essentially secure passage to the Round of 16, while a draw keeps the group in suspense ahead of the final matchday.
Familiar faces and emotional ties
Perhaps the most intriguing subplot is the presence of Jorginho, the former Chelsea and Arsenal midfielder, now wearing the Brazilian red. After leaving Arsenal, Jorginho signed with the Brazilian side and immediately slotted into the midfield with veteran poise.
In the Rubro-Negro’s opening win, the 33-year-old completed 92 of 99 passes and delivered the assist for Araujo’s goal—proof that his experience and tactical intelligence still shine.
“He’s played in huge matches. His ability to dictate tempo could be vital,” said Flamengo coach Filipe Luis, another former Chelsea man now on the touchline, turning this showdown into something of a Stamford Bridge reunion.
Projected lineups: Flamengo vs Chelsea
Both sides are expected to field close to full-strength XIs, with only minor changes possible. Here’s how the two clubs may line up:
Flamengo (4-3-3): Rossi; Wesley, Léo Ortiz, Léo Pereira, Alex Sandro; Jorginho, Pulgar, Gerson; Luiz Araújo, De Arrascaeta; Pedro
Chelsea (5-3-2): Sanchez; Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella; Enzo Fernandez, Moisés Caicedo; Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke; Nicolas Jackson
Still, Delap’s sharp performance off the bench could earn him a starting role in place of Jackson, while Fernandez and Gusto could return to the XI after being rested in the opener.
