A definitive match will take place as Fluminense meets Chelsea on Tuesday for a spot in the Club World Cup final. This marks the third time Chelsea is up against a Brazilian team in this tournament, having learned from their previous loss to Flamengo. This time, they are better equipped to handle the physical play.

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea’s head coach, faces a challenge with Liam Delap suspended due to yellow card accumulation, but their attacking options remain abundant with the debut of Joao Pedro. Meanwhile, Thiago Silva, former Chelsea defender, must solidify Fluminense’s defense against his old club.

Storylines:

• This match is crucial for both teams as they vie for a chance to face either Real Madrid or PSG in the final.
• Match Details:
  • Date: Tuesday, July 8 | Time: 3 p.m. ET
  • Location: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
  • Live stream: Watch on DAZN (free)
  • Odds: Fluminense +450; Draw +260; Chelsea -150

Last Meeting: This marks the first official match between these two teams.

Predicted Lineups:

• Fluminense: Fabio, Juan Pablo Freytes, Thiago Silva, Ignacio, Gabriel Fuentes, Nonato, Facundo Bernal, Matheus Martinelli, Samuel Xavier, Jhon Arias, German Cano.
• Chelsea: Robert Sanchez, Marc Cucurella, Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah, Malo Gusto, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Christopher Nkunku, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Nicolas Jackson.

Player to Watch:

• Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea: He will play a pivotal role, needing to make critical decisions under pressure against Fluminense’s defense. His performance will be essential in controlling play and delivering set pieces.

Prediction: I envision Cole Palmer scoring the only goal of the match, leading Chelsea to the final. Just a stepping stone nearer to capturing another title after their last victory in 2022.

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