2025 Club World Cup: Palmer fires Chelsea into semi-final with win over Palmeiras
Chelsea have advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after edging Brazilian side Palmeiras 2-1 in a closely contested quarter-final clash.
Cole Palmer opened scoring in the 16th minute, calmly slotting home after beating two defenders to give the Blues an early lead.
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Palmeiras responded in the second half through teenage sensation Estevao Willian, who fired in a stunning equaliser from a tight angle in the 53rd minute, a notable strike as the 18-year-old is set to join Chelsea in a £52 million deal.
Chelsea restored their lead shortly after, when Malo Gusto’s cross deflected off defender Giay Agustin and into the Palmeiras net for an own goal, sealing the win.
New £55 million signing Joao Pedro made his Chelsea debut after arriving from Brighton, while Liam Delap received a booking that rules him out of the next round due to suspension.
Captain Reece James was withdrawn during the warm-up due to injury, adding to the club’s growing concerns.
Meanwhile, Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semi-final on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.