Chelsea began their FIFA Club World Cup journey with a commanding 2-0 win against Los Angeles FC at Atlanta's Mercedes Benz Stadium on Monday, despite sparse attendance marking the high-profile clash. The English side showcased tactical discipline amid a slow start, gradually overpowering their MLS opponents through midfield control and sharp attacking plays.
Young stars Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson energized Chelsea's frontline, with Palmer narrowly missing a curling effort in the 20th minute. The breakthrough came when Jackson threaded a precise pass to Pedro Neto, who deftly evaded defenders before slotting past veteran goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in the 34th minute.
LAFC struggled to maintain momentum after losing Nathan Ordaz to a head injury, while Chelsea's summer signing Liam Delap made an immediate impact off the bench. The 64th-minute substitute delivered a pinpoint cross for Enzo Fernandez's clinching goal, sealing the victory for the Premier League club.
The match highlighted Chelsea's strategic depth as they integrate new signings, with manager Mauricio Pochettino praising the team's “adaptability in unfamiliar conditions.” For LAFC, Denis Bouanga's second-half solo effort offered fleeting hope, but the CONCACAF champions ultimately fell short against European opposition.
