Chelsea made a winning debut in the group stage of the 2025 Club World Cup with a 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Although the score favored the English side, the performance was not as convincing as expected, especially against an MLS opponent that showed moments of good soccer and even had clear chances to equalize.
The team coached by Enzo Maresca managed to control possession of the ball for a good part of the match, but suffered in several stretches due to the attacking intensity of the Los Angeles team, who bet on the counter-attack and came close to complicating the Blues.
Pedro Neto led the way
The first goal came in the 34th minute.
After a quick recovery in the middle of the field, Nicolas Jackson slipped a perfect pass to Pedro Neto.
The Portuguese winger cut back towards the center and unleashed a left-footed shot that surprised goalkeeper Hugo Lloris at the near post.
It was one of Chelsea’s few moments of offensive clarity in the first half.
Prior to that goal, the Londoners had created chances, such as a cross-shot by Madueke that challenged Lloris, and a shot from the midfield by Cole Palmer that went over the crossbar.
However, the lack of depth in the final third was evident.
LAFC responded
Far from retreating, LAFC reacted aggressively against Chelsea in the second half.
David Martínez had a clear option after leaving Cucurella behind, but his shot was deflected wide.
Denis Bouanga then generated two dangerous plays that forced Robert Sanchez to intervene.
The performance wasn't as dominant as expected
Mark Delgado even missed a clear-cut chance under the goal after a good assist from Bouanga.
Despite failing to score, the team coached by Steve Cherundolo showed that it has arguments to compete at international level and left a good feeling ahead of its next matches in the tournament.
Fernandez sealed the match
Buzzy
Just when the game seemed to be getting complicated for Chelsea, Enzo Fernandez appeared in the 79th minute to seal the win.
After a pass from Liam Delap, the Argentine controlled the ball with his chest and scored with his left foot in front of Lloris.
The 2-0 lead was a relief for the Blues, who finished the match with greater solidity and control.
Upcoming challenges in Group D
With this victory, Chelsea has three points in Group D, which also includes Flamengo and Esperance of Tunisia.
Their next match will be against the Brazilians, in a match that could define the leadership of the group.
LAFC, on the other hand, will face the Tunisian team with the obligation to win in order to stay alive in the tournament.
Chelsea delivered, but left unfinished business. LAFC lost, but gained respect.
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