Chelsea Edge Palmeiras 2-1 to Reach Club World Cup Semifinal

Chelsea secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras to book their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal, where they’ll face Fluminense in New York City on July 8.

The Premier League side took control early on with Cole Palmer scoring the opener in the 16th minute, curling a low shot into the corner after finding space in the Palmeiras half. “Been working on it in training. Just saw the space and went there,” Palmer told DAZN post-match.

Palmeiras responded in the second half through wonderkid Estevao, who leveled the score with a stunning solo goal in the 53rd minute. The Brazilian teenager, already signed by Chelsea but yet to join officially, was later named Player of the Match. “You can see he is a top player. We’re excited for him,” Palmer added.

With the game seemingly headed for extra time, Chelsea regained the lead after a costly error by Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton resulted in an own goal under pressure from Malo Gusto, sealing the Blues’ win.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised the squad’s determination, saying, “It has been a tough game, as we expected… Congratulations to the players. Happy because we won and also happy because Estevao scored.”

The victory means Chelsea advance to the semifinals of the competition, while Palmeiras bow out despite a spirited second-half display.

Chelsea now prepare to face Fluminense in what promises to be a thrilling encounter between English grit and Brazilian flair. As the Club World Cup unfolds, the Blues have shown they are not just contenders, but determined champions-in-waiting.