The highly anticipated Palmeiras vs Chelsea clash in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 quarter-finals took place on Friday, July 4, 2025, at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA. Kick-off was at 9:00 p.m. local time (2:00 a.m. GMT, Saturday, July 5). The match lived up to its billing, delivering high drama, stunning goals, and a late twist as Chelsea narrowly advanced to the semi-finals.
Match Overview
Fixture | Date | Time (Local) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Palmeiras vs Chelsea | July 4, 2025 | 9:00 p.m. | Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia |
First Half: Chelsea Take Early Initiative
Chelsea, despite missing key midfielders Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, started brightly. Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 16th minute, gliding past three defenders and finishing with a precise left-footed strike into the bottom corner. The Blues dominated possession and created several chances, with Pedro Neto causing problems down the right and Christopher Nkunku missing a clear opportunity to double the lead.
Palmeiras, missing key defenders, struggled to contain Chelsea's attack in the first half but managed to keep the deficit to just one goal at the break.
Second Half: Palmeiras Fight Back
The Brazilian side emerged with renewed energy after halftime. In the 53rd minute, Estêvão, the 18-year-old winger soon to join Chelsea, produced a moment of magic, cutting in from the right and unleashing a spectacular shot from a tight angle to equalize—a goal widely praised as a candidate for the tournament’s best.
Palmeiras threatened to take the lead, with Bruno Fuchs going close from a corner, but Chelsea’s defense held firm.
Decisive Moment: Late Own Goal Sends Chelsea Through
As the match appeared destined for extra time, Chelsea found a breakthrough in the 83rd minute. Malo Gusto’s low cross from the left deflected off Agustín Giay and then Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton, resulting in an unfortunate own goal that restored Chelsea’s lead. Palmeiras pressed for a late equalizer, but Chelsea saw out the final minutes to secure a 2-1 victory and a place in the semi-finals.
Ball Possession
Team | Possession |
|---|---|
| Palmeiras | 37% |
| Chelsea | 63% |
Key Match Stats
Stat | Palmeiras | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 1 | 2 |
| Shots (total) | 7 | 19 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 6 |
| Corners | 3 | 10 |
| Fouls | 14 | 16 |
| Yellow Cards | 1 | 3 |
Key Highlights
- Goals:
- Cole Palmer (Chelsea) 16’
- Estêvão (Palmeiras) 53’
- Weverton (Palmeiras, own goal) 83’
- Man of the Match: Estêvão (Palmeiras), recognized for his outstanding equalizer and overall impact.
- Attendance: Over 65,000 fans created a vibrant atmosphere in Philadelphia.
What’s Next?
Chelsea advance to face Fluminense in the semi-finals at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. UK time.
The Palmeiras vs Chelsea: Palmeiras vs Chelsea quarter-final delivered a showcase of young talent, tactical drama, and late-game heroics, with Chelsea ultimately prevailing in a match that will be remembered for Estêvão’s wondergoal and a dramatic own goal finish.