Home SPORTS Blues Book Semi-final Spot with Thrilling Win Over Palmeiras

Blues Book Semi-final Spot with Thrilling Win Over Palmeiras

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Relive the action as Chelsea edges out Palmeiras 2-1 to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup. Check out the match stats and quotes.


Chelsea secured a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals with a thrilling 2-1 win over Palmeiras in Philadelphia, snapping the Brazilian team's four-match unbeaten run (2 wins, 2 draws). Having struggled against Brazilian opponents in the competition previously, Enzo Maresca's side made a promising start, with Cole Palmer testing goalkeeper Weverton early on. Palmer's curling shot from distance was palmed away by the Brazilian stopper, denying Chelsea an early advantage.


The match ultimately ended in Chelsea's favor, setting up a semi-final clash with Fluminense.




Cole Palmer broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, showcasing his composure to score the opening goal. Receiving a pass with a delightful first touch, Palmer calmly slotted the ball into the bottom-left corner from just inside the penalty area.


Chelsea dominated the first half, subjecting Palmeiras to wave after wave of attacks. One notable chance fell to Christopher Nkunku, who found space inside the penalty area after being set up by Cole Palmer, but his effort sailed over the bar after he got underneath the ball.




Just before halftime, Palmeiras had a golden opportunity to level, with Vanderlan heading towards the top-left corner. However, Robert Sanchez produced a stunning save to deny the Brazilian side and keep Chelsea ahead.


Palmeiras stormed into the second half, and their improved form paid off shortly after halftime. Ironically, it was Estevao, a teenager set to join Chelsea, who scored the equalizer with a breathtaking strike. He drilled the ball in off the bar, leaving goalkeeper Sanchez with no chance.


Palmeiras continued to build momentum, with Allan testing Chelsea's defense in the hour mark. His cross-court strike narrowly missed the left post, agonizingly wide, as the Brazilian side pushed for the lead.


In the dying stages, Chelsea managed to snatch a fortuitous winner. With seven minutes left, a deflected cross from Malo Gusto caught Weverton off guard, and the ball bobbled over the line after a deflection off Bruno Fuchs, leaving the goalkeeper helpless.


A late Noni Madueke strike was pushed onto the post by Weverton, but it didn't change the outcome as Chelsea secured their spot in the semi-finals. The Blues will now face Fluminense, marking another Brazilian opponent in the tournament.




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