Chelsea asserted their dominance in Group D of the Club World Cup, securing a comfortable 2-0 win against LAFC in what marked the first-ever CWC encounter between English and American opposition. The Blues, widely tipped as heavy favorites, lived up to expectations, making an early statement in the tournament.
From the outset, Enzo Maresca’s side dictated the tempo, pinning the American outfit firmly in their own half. Despite early frustrations, including Noni Madueke’s left-footed drive being denied by a quick save from Hugo Lloris and Cole Palmer’s ambitious long-range effort sailing over, Chelsea’s relentless pressure eventually paid off. The breakthrough arrived a little over 10 minutes before halftime when Pedro Neto, showcasing exquisite skill, was freed in behind the defense. He expertly stepped inside, leaving an LAFC defender on the turf, before unleashing a powerful strike that beat Lloris at the near post.
LAFC emerged from the break with renewed vigor, and the introduction of David Martínez at halftime almost yielded an immediate impact. Martínez curled a promising effort agonizingly wide from the edge of the area, signaling their intent to change the game’s flow. However, Chelsea swiftly reminded them of their capabilities. Nicolas Jackson saw his header heroically blocked on the line by Timothy Tillman, while at the other end, Denis Bouanga’s cut-inside effort, mirroring Neto’s opening goal, was denied by a strong block from Robert Sánchez.
The decisive blow came for Chelsea 10 minutes from time. New signing Liam Delap, making an impressive debut, floated a precise cross into the box. Enzo Fernández latched onto it with precision, firing the ball into the corner to double Chelsea’s advantage. LAFC’s David Martínez continued to press for a consolation, but his low drive was expertly repelled by the formidable Robert Sánchez. In the dying moments, Neto nearly added another, striking the crossbar with the last kick of the game.
Chelsea’s convincing performance not only earned them three crucial points in Group D but also reinforced their position as strong contenders to top the group. A challenging fixture against Flamengo awaits them next, while Steve Cherundolo’s LAFC side will look to bounce back against Esperance de Tunis.
