Chelsea find themselves in need of at least a draw against Esperance Tunis this Tuesday in order to advance to the Club World Cup knock-out stage.
Chelsea predicted lineup vs Esperance Tunis
Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Sanchez; James, Chalobah, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Delap.
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The path looked smooth and easy for Chelsea to top Group D of the 2025 Fifa Club World Cup after beating Los Angeles FC and going 1-0 up early against Flamengo last Friday. However, the Blues conceded two goals and had Nicolas Jackson sent off in a span of just six minutes and all went downhill from there. The Brazilian side eventually completed a shocking comeback to beat the reigning Uefa Conference League champions 3-1.
Now, Enzo Maresca’s men are level on points with their next opponent Esperance Tunis, needing at least a draw to seal their spot in the last 16. They cannot finish top of the group after the defeat to Flamengo, with head-to-head the first tiebreaker if required.
Chelsea team news vs Esperance Tunis
Chelsea have been mainly healthy as of late, with no injuries in the Club World Cup squad. But they till still be without Nicolas Jackson for the game against Esperance Tunis. The Senegalese striker was sent off against Flamengo, receiving his second red card in four games.
Liam Delap is expected to maintain his spot leading the attack after getting heavily involved in his first start for the Blues against Flamengo and in the few minutes he got against LAFC. The recently-signed striker provided an assist in his Chelsea debut, but missed two big chances in the defeat to Flamengo. Fans certainly hope that he will start converting them, but getting on the end of them and even creating them is half the battle.
Noni Madueke could also get back into the team after starting on the bench last time out. The Englishman has been struggling so far, only completing two of his six take-ons attempted. But Madueke provided flow to the attack against LAFC, which was dearly missed against Flamengo.
Neto for the rescue?
While Chelsea have generally struggled in attack, one forward has been living up to expectations — and maybe even surpassing them. Pedro Neto is one of just seven players two have scored in two separate games in the Club World Cup so far. The Portuguese forward has been carrying the Blues on his back, also helping defensively and showing a lot of passion.
Neto has already scored as many goals in this tournament as he had managed in his previous 18 matches combined for Chelsea across all competitions. He could definitely provide the spark they need in order to close the deal and advance to the next round.
In theory, Chelsea shouldn’t have many issues dealing with Esperance Tunis and a win looks likely. Still, the same was said about them against Flamengo and other top clubs against lesser sides who have shown more resistance than imagined. Enzo Maresca must make sure his men are focused and up to the task in order to avoid another shock defeat that would mean elimination from the tournament.