Fluminense vs Chelsea: Brazilian Side Look to Continue Club World Cup Fairytale

The Fluminense vs Chelsea clash in the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is set to deliver high drama, passion, and history in the making. Few expected Fluminense, a club once facing relegation just months ago, to make it this far in the competition. But now, the Brazilian underdogs stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the giants of Europe, prepared to take on Chelsea at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With a place in the final on the line, Fluminense are determined to extend their fairytale run against all odds.

Match Details: Fluminense vs Chelsea

• Fixture: Fluminense vs Chelsea
• Tournament: FIFA Club World Cup 2025
• Stage: Semi-final
• Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
• Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA
• Kick-off Time (IST): 6:30 AM, Wednesday, July 9
• Possible Final Opponent: Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain

From Relegation Battle to Club World Cup Spotlight

Just half a year ago, Fluminense were battling for survival in Brazil’s Serie A. Fast forward to today, and they are preparing for the biggest match in the club’s recent history: Fluminense vs Chelsea in the Club World Cup semi-final. Their rise has been remarkable and driven by experience, belief, and tactical discipline.

At the heart of their transformation is veteran defender Thiago Silva, who returned to his boyhood club in 2024 after winning major trophies with European giants like PSG, AC Milan, and Chelsea. Now 40, Silva’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding Fluminense through tough group-stage games and knockout victories over Inter Milan and Al Hilal.

Reflecting on their journey, Silva said, “God has blessed us and made it possible for us to overcome that moment.” The veteran now faces a reunion with his former side Chelsea, with whom he won the UEFA Champions League and Club World Cup in 2021.

Fluminense coach Renato Portaluppi, better known as Renato Gaucho, fully embraces the underdog status heading into the Fluminense vs Chelsea matchup. “Many people didn’t believe in us—and now we’re in the semi-finals. Fluminense are one of the four best teams in the world,” he said. Renato sees this as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and has instilled the belief that they can go all the way.

Tactical Belief Meets Financial Disparity

When comparing Fluminense vs Chelsea on paper, the differences are stark. Chelsea boast a squad packed with international stars, world-class facilities, and enormous financial power. In contrast, Renato revealed that Fluminense operate on less than 10% of the budget of Chelsea, PSG, or Real Madrid.

“These clubs have everything to sign the best players,” he stated. “But we’ve reached the semi-finals with hard work, focus, and belief.” Fluminense finished second in Group F and stunned their critics by eliminating big names on their way to the last four.

“They have a powerful attack and intelligent midfielders,” he said. “But we’ve stuck to our identity. We don’t change our football based on the opponent.” He also praised the team’s tactical flexibility, noting that he changed formation twice during the tournament—with success both times.

The Fluminense vs Chelsea game is not just about tactics; it’s about heart, leadership, and resilience. Thiago Silva’s return to face Chelsea adds an emotional element to the contest. “He’s a phenomenon,” said Renato. “He’s an extension of the coach on the field.”

Now, with a final against either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain looming, Fluminense are just one win away from the ultimate dream. But they aren’t looking past Chelsea. “Yes, we’ve made history. Yes, we’re happy. But we want more,” said Renato. “Our goal is the final.”

The stage is set in New Jersey. And as the world watches the Fluminense vs Chelsea showdown, the question remains: can belief overcome billions?