Chelsea Sink Palmeiras To Storm Into Club Semi-Finals
Their early dominance paid off in the 16th minute when Mykhailo Leonardo struck with a cool finish after a slick team move, putting the London club 1-0 up.
Chelsea players celebrate after edging Palmeiras 2-1 to reach the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
Chelsea are through to the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 after edging Brazilian giants Palmeiras 2-1 in a tense and dramatic quarter-final clash.
In a game packed with energy, intensity, and storylines, the Blues held their nerve against a spirited Palmeiras side, thanks to a first-half goal from Mykhailo Leonardo and a late own goal from goalkeeper Weverton.
The match began at a furious pace with Chelsea looking sharp and composed. Their early dominance paid off in the 16th minute when Mykhailo Leonardo struck with a cool finish after a slick team move, putting the London club 1-0 up.
But Palmeiras, backed by a passionate crowd, came out stronger in the second half. Teenage sensation Estêvão Willian—who has already signed a future deal to join Chelsea—showed exactly why the Blues invested in him. In the 53rd minute, the 17-year-old fired home a powerful equalizer, sending the home fans into a frenzy and making a bold statement against his future employers.
With both sides pushing for a winner, it was Chelsea who found the breakthrough. In the 83rd minute, disaster struck for Palmeiras when a defensive scramble led to Weverton deflecting the ball into his own net. The own goal shattered the Brazilian side’s momentum and handed Chelsea a fortunate but decisive lead.
Despite Palmeiras piling on late pressure, Chelsea defended with discipline to see out the result.
The win sends Chelsea into the semi-finals where they will face either Al Ahly of Egypt or Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds. The Blues are now two wins away from capturing their second Club World Cup title, having last lifted the trophy in 2021.
Meanwhile, Palmeiras exit with heartbreak but pride, particularly in the standout performance of Estêvão, whose brilliance lit up the night even in defeat.
About Author
