Chelsea vs LAFC FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Blues Triumph 2-0 in Atlanta
Chelsea FC dominated LAFC 2-0 in their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 opener in Atlanta. Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández scored, showcasing the Blues’ attacking prowess and tactical discipline, while LAFC struggled to convert limited chances.
Atlanta, June 16, 2025 – Chelsea FC launched their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC (LAFC) at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, solidifying their status as Group D favorites. Goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández, coupled with a dominant performance, underscored the Premier League side’s superiority in front of a modest 22,137 fans.
Chelsea controlled the match from the outset, boasting 65.3% possession and 17 shots, six on target, compared to LAFC’s 34.7% and three shots in the penalty box. The Blues’ precision was evident with a 91.1% pass completion rate, outpacing LAFC’s 84.9%. Pedro Neto opened the scoring in the 34th minute, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Nicolas Jackson. After a deft move past Ryan Hollingshead, Neto rifled the ball past Hugo Lloris, igniting the sparse crowd.
LAFC, despite their underdog status, showed resilience. Denis Bouanga, with nine goals in his last 10 games, tested Chelsea’s Robert Sánchez around the 60th minute, but the keeper stood firm. David Martínez also offered flashes of promise, but LAFC struggled to convert their limited chances, managing only one clear-cut opportunity.
The second half saw Chelsea maintain their grip. In the 79th minute, debutant Liam Delap delivered a pinpoint cross to Fernández, who calmly slotted home to seal the win. Delap’s impact off the bench highlighted Chelsea’s depth, while LAFC’s late substitutions, including Marlon Santos and Yaw Yeboah, couldn’t shift the momentum. A bizarre moment occurred when Olivier Giroud, LAFC’s former Chelsea striker, stood shirtless on the sidelines awaiting a replacement kit, symbolizing the MLS side’s disarray.
Chelsea’s Enzo Maresca praised his team’s composure despite the “strange” half-empty stadium atmosphere, while LAFC’s Steve Cherundolo acknowledged his side’s effort but admitted Chelsea punished their mistakes. The Blues now lead Group D and face Flamengo next in Philadelphia on June 20, while LAFC take on ES Tunis.
This match showcased Chelsea’s tactical discipline and attacking prowess, setting a strong tone for their Club World Cup aspirations. For LAFC, the loss highlighted the gap in quality against elite European sides, but their spirited display offers hope for their remaining group stage matches.
