Chelsea Faces LAFC in Club World Cup Opener in Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia — The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off in Atlanta with a highly anticipated Group D clash between UEFA Conference League champions Chelsea and MLS side LAFC. The match began at 3:28 PM EDT on June 16, 2025, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Chelsea arrived in the U.S. after winning the UEFA Conference League last month, with head coach Enzo Maresca hoping to build on that success against the Los Angeles-based club. LAFC entered the tournament as late entrants following the disqualification of Club León for violating multi-club ownership rules.

The atmosphere in the stadium featured LAFC’s supportive group, The 3252, known for their passionate backing. Their presence in Atlanta highlights the growing popularity of soccer in the U.S. despite Chelsea’s status as tournament favorites.

LAFC, founded in 2014, has gained notable attention for its rapid rise in Major League Soccer, capitalizing on its location in downtown Los Angeles and the increasing interest in the sport nationally. Celebrity ownership, including notable figures like Will Ferrell and Magic Johnson, has also boosted the club’s profile.

The match started slow, with both teams initially testing each other’s defenses but Chelsea began to assert themselves with more ball possession. Players like Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke pushed forward aggressively, creating scoring opportunities.

After 10 minutes, Chelsea demonstrated their attacking promise as Romeo Lavia took control in midfield, allowing his teammates to advance into dangerous positions. LAFC’s Denis Bouanga was expected to be a key threat, known for his speed and capability to challenge opposing defenses.

The teams finished the first half scoreless, both showcasing their attacking capabilities while struggling to convert chances. Chelsea looked to their experienced players for leadership as they sought to secure a win early in the tournament.

As the match progressed, Chelsea and LAFC aimed to set the tone for the coming matches in the group stage, with high stakes involving not just reputations but also valuable historical contexts for both clubs.

Ultimately, this clash not only serves as a competitive fixture but also as a showcase for both leagues, underlining the cross-continental rivalry in global soccer.