Fluminense Aim to Make History Against Chelsea in Club World Cup Semi-Final

Brazilian club Fluminense are dreaming big as they prepare to face Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final on Tuesday, despite being seen as the underdogs.

The match will take place at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where hot weather is expected to test both teams. But Fluminense manager Renato Portaluppi is focused on the opportunity to make history, not the heat.

“We are playing against a very rich and powerful team, but that doesn’t decide the game,” said Portaluppi. “Football is played on the pitch. Even though we have far less money than clubs like Chelsea, we believe we can reach the final—and maybe even win the Club World Cup.”

Fluminense, the 2023 Copa Libertadores champions, have already gone further than many expected. They are captained by former Chelsea star Thiago Silva, who now leads the Brazilian side with experience and confidence.

This will be Chelsea’s third match against Brazilian opponents in the tournament, having already played Flamengo and Palmeiras. Manager Enzo Maresca admitted the Brazilian teams have impressed with their energy and passion.

“The first two Brazilian teams gave us very tough games. I expect the same again tomorrow,” Maresca said.

Chelsea, however, will be missing some key players. Liam Delap and Levi Colwill are suspended, while Romeo Lavia is still injured. Moises Caicedo returns from suspension, and forward Nicolas Jackson is available again after his red card against Flamengo. New signing Joao Pedro could also be in the starting lineup.

Despite these issues and the intense afternoon heat, Maresca said his team is ready to adapt.

“The weather is hot, yes, but we’ve played in many different conditions before. The aim is simple—adapt and win,” he told reporters.

Fluminense, with much smaller resources but a big dream, hope to upset the odds and reach the final. For them, this is more than just a match—it’s a chance to write a new chapter in the club’s history.