• Andrey Santos to start?
• Neto, Delap, Caicedo, Cucurella, Tosin and James all have yellow cards.
• Jackson suspended.
Reaction to Chelsea's 3-1 defeat to Flamengo
Flamengo delivered a masterclass in resilience, overturning a 1-0 deficit to thrash Chelsea 3-1 in their FIFA Club World Cup Group D clash at Lincoln Financial Field. The Brazilian giants showcased their flair, leaving the Blues reeling.
Chelsea struck early through Pedro Neto’s clinical 13th-minute solo effort, capitalizing on a Flamengo defensive error. Despite Flamengo’s early pressure, Chelsea led at halftime, with Levi Colwill’s goal-line clearance denying Gerson. However, the second half was a different story.
Flamengo roared back, with substitute Bruno Henrique leveling the score in the 62nd minute, tapping in after Gonzalo Plata’s clever header. Three minutes later, Danilo volleyed home from a corner to put Flamengo ahead.
Chelsea’s woes deepened when Nicolas Jackson, on for just four minutes, received a straight red for a reckless challenge on Ayrton Lucas. Wallace Yan sealed the rout in the 83rd minute, pouncing on a loose ball.
Enzo Maresca’s Press Conference: Chelsea Gear Up for ES Tunis Clash
On June 23, 2025, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca addressed the media in Philadelphia ahead of the crucial FIFA Club World Cup Group D match against ES Tunis. Speaking at 6:30 PM UK time, Maresca discussed the challenges of the sweltering 37°C heat, squad rotation, and the need to secure at least a draw to advance to the knockout stages after a 2-0 win over LAFC and a 3-1 loss to Flamengo.
Maresca highlighted the impact of the Philadelphia heatwave, describing a short, tactical training session to conserve energy. “It’s almost impossible to train because of the weather,” he said, but dismissed using it as an excuse. He confirmed squad rotation, with Reece James likely out due to illness, Levi Colwill potentially available, and Nicolas Jackson suspended. Players like Christopher Nkunku and Liam Delap could feature prominently.
Showing respect for ES Tunis, Maresca noted their competitiveness despite a 2-0 loss to Flamengo. “It’s going to be a tough game,” he said, warning against complacency. With Chelsea under constant pressure, Maresca emphasized focus: “We need to be ready and win the game.”
The match, set for 2:00 AM UK time on June 25 at Lincoln Financial Field, is pivotal for Chelsea’s progression. Maresca’s pragmatic approach and squad management will be key as the Blues aim to navigate the heat and secure a result.
Chelsea vs ES Tunis Preview
Chelsea take on Tunisian champions ES Tunis in a pivotal FIFA Club World Cup Group D match on June 25, 2025, at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, with kick-off at 2:00 AM UK time. The Blues, coming off a 2-0 win over LAFC and a 3-1 loss to Flamengo, need at least a draw to secure a knockout stage spot.
Enzo Maresca faces challenges with a sweltering 37°C heatwave, prompting a short, tactical training session to conserve energy. Reece James is likely out due to illness, Nicolas Jackson is suspended, and Levi Colwill’s availability is uncertain. Maresca plans to rotate, with Christopher Nkunku and Liam Delap expected to feature.
Despite ES Tunis’ 2-0 defeat to Flamengo, Maresca respects their competitiveness, warning, “It’s going to be tough.” Chelsea, under pressure to perform, aim to avoid surprises and build momentum. Broadcast live on DAZN, this match will test the Blues’ depth and resilience as they chase progression.
Chelsea suspension worries
Nicolas Jackson isn't the only suspension worries that Chelsea have after picking up 6 yellow cards in the first two games. If a player receives two yellow cards throughout the tournament, then they will miss the next game.
Neto, Delap, Caicedo, Cucurella, Tosin and James are the players that have picked up yellow cards so far for Chelsea.
Likely tournament route
With Chelsea likely to come second in Group D, this will likely be Chelsea's route to the semi-finals:
Round of 16 - Bayern Munich or Benfica
Quarter-Final - Palmeiras or Botafogo
Predicted Line-Up
With Chelsea needing at least a draw to quality and Maresca's lack of rotation so far, we think that Chelsea will go with something like this. Let us know your thoughts below.
My team against ES Tunis. Thoughts? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/6DZES9q8ej
— CFC-Blues (@CFCBlues_com) June 23, 2025
