The Club World Cup opens with Chelsea squaring off against Los Angeles FC at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Arena. Chelsea earned its spot by winning the UEFA Champions League in 2021, though the team has seen significant changes since then. LAFC, featuring former Chelsea player Olivier Giroud, benefits from a playoff spot after a dramatic qualifier against Club America. The match is crucial for both clubs as Chelsea aims to secure group stage supremacy.
Viewing Information
- Date: Monday, June 16
- Time: 5 p.m. ET
- Location: Mercedes Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
- Live stream: Watch on DAZN (for free)
Odds
- Chelsea: -333
- Draw: +400
- LAFC: +850
Last Meeting
This will mark the first competitive encounter between Chelsea and LAFC.
Predicted Lineups
Chelsea: Robert Sanchez; Reece James, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, Marc Cucurella; Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo; Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto; Nicolas Jackson
LAFC: Hugo Lloris; Sergi Palencia, Aaron Long, Maxime Chanot, Ryan Hollingshead; Igor Jesus, Tillman, Mark Delgado; Denis Bouanga, Olivier Giroud, Yaw Yeboah.
Player to Watch
Olivier Giroud (LAFC): Giroud has had a slow start to his MLS career, with only five goals in thirty-three matches. However, he might find an advantage against Chelsea’s players who are fatigued from a long European season. “These top European teams may feel a bit tired, giving us an opportunity to show what MLS teams are capable of,” he commented.
Storyline to Watch
Can Liam Delap Break the No. 9 Curse? Delap’s new role as Chelsea’s No. 9 comes with notable pressure to perform and break the scoring drought witnessed in that position by previous players.
Prediction
Expect Chelsea to demonstrate their strength and tactical style, likely winning decisively. Pick: Chelsea 3, LAFC 0
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