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Flamingo’s Shocking Victory Over Chelsea: A Unforgettable Night at the Club World Cup in Doha

Posted on by unilikpro07
June 20, 2025, 05:15 PM ET

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has officially kicked off, already sparking numerous conversations and narratives. Here’s a quick summary of the unfolding drama, what’s been missed, and what’s on the horizon.

This update will be revised after each matchday to bring you the most recent insights, analyses, and enjoyable moments from the tournament. Be sure to check back for the latest updates as we gear up for the climactic finale at MetLife Stadium on July 13.

Highlight: Chelsea Shocked by Flamengo in Unexpected Defeat

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — Chelsea’s aspirations in the Club World Cup took a critical hit early in their match against Flamengo on Friday.

Leading 1-0 thanks to Pedro Neto’s strike in the 13th minute, Chelsea seemed well on their way to advancing in the tournament. Their efforts included plans for a training camp in Miami, preparing for a deeper run in the competition, with a substantial £97million prize tempting them.

However, after the 60-minute mark, everything pivoted. Flamengo responded robustly with goals from Bruno Henrique and Danilo to shift momentum, compounded by an unnecessary red card for Nicolas Jackson for a reckless challenge on Ayrton Lucas. Wallace Yan capped off Flamengo’s deserved victory with a third goal, igniting the passionate support from fans decked in red and black who celebrated their team’s comeback.

This match raised serious questions regarding Chelsea and their head coach, Enzo Maresca. His decision to place Reece James in midfield and shift Cole Palmer out wide resulted in a disorganized performance. Palmer, despite previously expressing pride in wearing his No. 10 shirt, struggled to make an impact, with only 15 touches and three successful passes in the first half. His overall contribution amounted to just 32 touches before being substituted in the 82nd minute as they chased the game with ten men.

“We aimed to experiment for the future,” Maresca stated after the loss. “We have another match upcoming, and we will strive for victory.”

Criticism primarily fell on Jackson, who had just entered the match as a substitute for four minutes before his reckless challenge led to the red card. This was reminiscent of a similar incident earlier in the campaign against Newcastle. Chelsea managed to regroup back then, but now will look to Liam Delap in their next clash against Esperance Sportive de Tunis at Lincoln Financial Field on Wednesday.

Although the road ahead is uncertain, Chelsea may not finish atop their group given recent events, potentially facing Bayern Munich in the knockout stage. This matchup would significantly test their capability to clinch a title their owners have earmarked as vital.

As it stands, Chelsea’s prospects appear dim. In a balancing act between targeting tournament success and managing player fitness for the subsequent 2025-26 season, Maresca finds himself challenged. This match served as a stark reminder of what’s at stake, with nearly 54,019 fans spurring Flamengo on while Chelsea struggled to match their opponent’s tenacity.

While there’s still time to turn their fortunes around, this setback makes the journey ahead much more challenging for Chelsea. — James Olley

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• Boca Juniors’ players face four-match bans

Club World Cup Atmosphere

Flamengo’s Experience Shines Against Chelsea

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania — Prior to the match, Chelsea had been warned that the atmosphere would feel like an away game—not just due to the crowd size at Lincoln Financial Field but because of the overwhelming noise from Flamengo supporters. Once the match commenced, Flamengo demonstrated their tactical prowess against their esteemed European counterparts.

Despite possessing a technically gifted lineup including de Arrascaeta, Jorginho, and Erick Pulgar, Flamengo maintained their composure. They trailed only due to a defensive blunder and asserted their dominance in the second half.

Flamengo’s tactical substitution of de Arrascaeta for Bruno Henrique proved pivotal, leading to a goal and an assist shortly after the break. Jackson’s blunder only compounded Chelsea’s woes, highlighting Flamengo’s maturity and experience on such a grand stage, particularly as Chelsea struggled with discipline.

This Flamengo side blends vast experience with a winning mentality, attributes befitting a club of their stature in Brazil, currently leading Group D. Their history includes legends like Zico and Leonardo, and they thrive in high-pressure settings like the Maracanã. Chelsea, displaying youth and inexperience, struggled under such scrutiny.

Boca Juniors Enthrall Their Fans in Fort Lauderdale

FORT LAUDERDALE, Florida — “Edi! Edi! Can I get a photo?”

Edinson Cavani graciously accommodates autograph requests as Boca Juniors fans flock to their hotel, eager to catch a glimpse of the team. The vibrant spirit shines throughout Fort Lauderdale, as Boca jerseys flood the streets, with many fans aiming for spontaneous encounters with their heroes.

At their hotel, Boca players, including Cavani and club president Juan Román Riquelme, mingle with fans, creating an electric atmosphere tailored for unforgettable experiences.

Alongside Boca, Borussia Dortmund also finds their base in Fort Lauderdale, drawing attention as they arrive via police escort for training, attracting dedicated fans hoping for a sighting of their favorite players.

Back at Boca’s home, Cavani manages to navigate his way through the throngs of supporters, once again leading to another photo opportunity before retreating further inside the hotel.

This vibrant encounter showcases the deep connection between Boca Juniors and their fans, envisioning a thrilling tournament ahead. — Alex Kirkland

Stay tuned for more insights and highlights…

Player of the Day

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Upcoming Matches and Odds for Friday

Mamelodi Sundowns vs. Borussia Dortmund (Group F; Cincinnati, OH, Noon ET)

Odds (via ESPN BET): Mamelodi Sundowns (+600), Draw (+400), Borussia Dortmund (-260)

Dortmund is likely to secure a straightforward victory given their experience, but the humidity may play a key role. Mamelodi Sundowns currently lead Group F and will aim for another win, buoyed by their last match’s success. Dortmund must elevate their gameplay to move forward in the tournament.

For the Sundowns, forward Iqraam Rayners will look to contribute significantly once more. — Tyler

Inter Milan vs. Urawa RD (Group E; Seattle, WA, 3 p.m. ET)

Odds: Inter Milan (-550), Draw (+550), Urawa RD (+1000)

Inter faces a unique challenge with sibling competitors vying for a starting spot as they gear up for their next match. It’s a unique dynamic that reflects the intensity of team selection.

Both brothers, Sebastiano and Pio Esposito, are young talents that bring energy to the squad as they look to solidify their position. — Gab Marcotti

Fluminense vs. Ulsan HD (Group F; East Rutherford, NJ, 6 p.m. ET)

Odds: Fluminense (-270), Draw (+400), Ulsan HD (+700)

Fluminense must build on their recent performance to advance and will aim for a composed display in front of goal to ensure their progress in the tournament.

Conversely, Ulsan HD will rely on their experienced midfield to navigate this tough match. — Tyler

River Plate vs. Monterrey (Group E; Pasadena, CA, 9 p.m. ET)

Odds: River Plate (+105), Draw (+240), Monterrey (+250)

After a surprising draw against Inter Milan, Monterrey must focus on set-piece effectiveness and striking partnerships to remain competitive in this crucial encounter against River Plate, who lead Group E.

The stakes are high, and both teams will need to deliver their best to secure advancement to the knockout stage. — Becherano