The FIFA Club World Cup got off to an exciting start, with Chelsea and Flamengo securing victories in Group D action, while Boca Juniors suffered a dramatic setback against Benfica.
Chelsea Dominates LAFC
Chelsea showed why they are one of the favorites to win the tournament with a dominant 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC (LAFC). After a slow start, Chelsea’s Pedro Neto broke the deadlock, and the Blues’ pressure continued to wear down their opponents.
New signing Liam Delap, making his Chelsea debut after joining from Ipswich Town, provided the assist for Enzo Fernandez’s second goal. LAFC, despite making a strong showing, couldn’t capitalize on limited opportunities, and Chelsea never looked troubled after taking the lead.
The victory sets Chelsea up well in the competition, with Delap impressing on his debut. The striker position remains up for grabs, but performances like these show why Chelsea pursued him. LAFC, on the other hand, will need to improve if MLS clubs are to make a serious impact in this competition.
Flamengo Holds Off Esperance
Flamengo, featuring new signing Jorginho from Arsenal, made an impressive start to their Club World Cup campaign, defeating Tunisian side Esperance 2-0. The Brazilian club withstood heavy pressure from Esperance, who had moments of dominance during the game.
Luiz Araujo’s opening goal was assisted by Giogian De Arrascaeta, and Jorginho’s assist for Araujo’s second-half goal sealed the win. Flamengo’s solid performance keeps them in contention for top spot in Group D, setting up a key clash with Chelsea in their next match.
Flamengo’s resilience, despite the pressure from Esperance, shows they are ready to compete for a deep run in the competition, with manager Filipe Luis now facing his former club Chelsea in a pivotal match.
Boca Juniors Squander 2-0 Lead Against Benfica
Boca Juniors let a two-goal lead slip away in a dramatic 2-2 draw against Benfica. The Argentine side initially shocked Benfica, leading 2-0 thanks to a solid performance, but Benfica responded with goals from Angel Di Maria and Nicolas Otamendi, who was involved in both key moments.
Otamendi drew a penalty that Di Maria converted, and then Otamendi scored the equalizer after a corner.
Despite taking a one-goal lead after Benfica’s Andrea Belotti received a red card for a boot to the head, Boca could not capitalize. Tensions flared as both teams saw a total of three red cards during the chaotic match.
Boca’s missed opportunity means their fate in Group D will likely come down to their matches against Bayern Munich and Auckland City, with Benfica also needing a strong performance against Bayern.
Group D Update
- Chelsea lead the group after their solid 2-0 win over LAFC.
- Flamengo matched Chelsea’s goal difference with their 2-0 win against Esperance.
- Boca Juniors and Benfica drew in a wild match, leaving both teams in a tight race to progress from Group D.
How to Watch the Club World Cup
All matches are available for free on the DAZN app, with streaming available worldwide throughout the group stage and final. You can catch all the action without any cost to access.
Monday’s Results
- Chelsea 2, LAFC 0
- Boca Juniors 2, Benfica 2
- Flamengo 2, Esperance 0
Stay tuned for more exciting action as the Club World Cup continues, with Group D matches heating up as teams vie for the prestigious title.
