Chelsea vs LAFC kicks off Club World Cup 2025: how to watch and lineups

Chelsea and Los Angeles FC kick off Group D of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Monday, June 16, at 3:00 PM ET, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, USA. The match will be broadcast live on Globo, SporTV, CazéTV, Disney+, and DAZN, offering multiple viewing options. Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, aims to assert dominance, while LAFC, under Steve Cherundolo, seeks an upset after qualifying through a playoff against América-MEX. The game marks the debut of the expanded 32-team tournament, drawing global attention with Chelsea’s Liam Delap and LAFC’s Olivier Giroud as key figures.

The matchup pits Chelsea’s technical prowess against LAFC’s fast-paced style. The Blues miss Wesley Fofana but field a strong lineup, while LAFC relies on Hugo Lloris and Denis Bouanga. Venezuelan referee Jesús Valenzuela oversees the game, with a vibrant crowd expected.

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• Match highlights:
• Chelsea debuts Liam Delap in attack.
• LAFC’s Giroud faces his former club.
• Multiple broadcast options, including free streams.
• Competitive Group D with Flamengo and Espérance.

The game sets the tone for both teams in a challenging group.

Atlanta #FIFACWC action! 🔜 pic.twitter.com/5UyIaBfgcW

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 16, 2025

Chelsea’s buildup

Chelsea, fresh off a Conference League title, fields a robust squad despite Fofana’s absence. Maresca’s probable lineup includes Sanchez; James, Adarabioyo, Colwill, Cucurella; Fernández, Caicedo, Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Delap. Cole Palmer, with 12 goals this season, leads the attack. The team prepared with U.S. friendlies, adapting to Atlanta’s climate. Fans expect a commanding start.

LAFC’s journey

LAFC earned their spot by defeating América-MEX in a playoff, replacing León-MEX. Currently fifth in MLS, Cherundolo’s squad features Lloris; Palencia, Long, Segura, Hollingshead; Delgado, Igor Jesus, Tillman, Yeboah; Ebobisse, Bouanga. Bouanga, with 10 goals, drives the offense. An unbeaten streak of 10 games boosts their confidence.

Viewing options

Fans can watch on Globo (free TV), SporTV (cable), or stream via CazéTV, DAZN, and Disney+. CazéTV offers free YouTube access, while DAZN provides high-quality streaming. Pre- and post-game coverage enhances the experience.

• Broadcast channels:
• Globo: free-to-air with traditional commentary.
• SporTV: in-depth analysis.
• CazéTV: free streaming on YouTube.
• DAZN: free with registration.

Group D dynamics

Group D includes Flamengo and Espérance alongside Chelsea and LAFC. The top two advance, making this opener pivotal. Chelsea is favored, but LAFC aims for the second spot against strong competition.

Key players to watch

Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson spearhead Chelsea, while Bouanga and Giroud lead LAFC. Giroud’s history with Chelsea adds intrigue. Delap’s debut could be a game-changer.

• Players to note:
• Palmer: Chelsea’s creative force.
• Bouanga: LAFC’s top scorer.
• Giroud: potential impact substitute.
• Delap: emerging talent.

Venue and atmosphere

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with 71,000 seats, hosts a lively crowd. Tickets ranged from $50 to $200, with premium sections sold out. Chelsea and LAFC fans create a festive vibe.

Club World Cup format

The 2025 edition features 32 teams across eight groups, with the top two advancing. Held from June 14 to July 13 in 12 U.S. stadiums, the final is set for New York. Brazil has four teams in the mix.

Chelsea vs LAFC history

The teams have never met, making this a historic clash. Chelsea’s billion-euro squad contrasts with LAFC’s tactical cohesion, promising an unpredictable encounter.

Match expectations

Chelsea seeks a win to lead the group, while LAFC targets a draw to stay competitive. The tactical battle and star performances will shape the outcome.