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FIFA Club World Cup: Chelsea Clinches Opening Win Amid Empty Seats
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Midday Kickoff Leaves Atlanta Crowd Thin
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Neto, Delap & Fernández Secure Group D Advantage
Chelsea made a grand entrance into the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Monday, June 16.
Also Read: BREAKING: Chelsea Lift FIFA Club World Cup For The First Time
Pedro Neto found the net in the 27th minute.
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Then, Enzo Fernández who came in to replace Romeo Lavia immediately after the first half break finished the job in the 79th minute.
Meanwhile, fewer than 22,000 people attended a stadium that can hold over 71,000 spectators.
As a result, the sea of empty seats made the vibe feel flat.
The 8:00 PM Monday kickoff ran right into people’s work hours.
So, even those last-minute ticket deals didn’t pull in many fans.
In contrast, weekend matches like PSG vs. Atlético at the Rose Bowl filled the seats.
Plus, locals struggled to make it to a midday game.
On the field, Chelsea took charge right away.
Hugo Lloris kept LAFC in the game with saves from Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke.
Then Cole Palmer rattled the crossbar and Jackson’s slick pass set up Neto, who curled it in at the near post.
Also Read: Club World Cup Final: Chelsea Desperate to Avoid Repeating 2012 Mistake
After the break, newcomer Liam Delap made an instant impact with a pinpoint cross.
Enzo Fernández tapped the cross in to complete the 2-0 win.
Chelsea now eye their next Group D clash.
Later that day, Esperance went head-to-head with Flamengo with 2-0 victory in favour of Filipe Luís’ men.
What’s your take on Chelsea’s display and the sparse crowd?
Do you believe that FIFA ought to reconsider noon kickoffs? Stay tuned for all the action at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with live updates and expert commentary!
