Chelsea vs LAFC in Nepal Time: Club World Cup Preview, Prediction, Team News

Two title-winning sides meet in a heavyweight Group D opener as Premier League giants Chelsea take on MLS outfit Los Angeles FC in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The matchup sees UEFA Conference League winners Chelsea face off against the US Open Cup holders, LAFC, in what promises to be a high-intensity encounter.

Kick-off (Nepal Time): 12:45 AM, Monday, June 17
Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

Chelsea: New Era, Same Ambition

Chelsea return to the Club World Cup for the first time since 2022, having qualified as Champions League winners from the 2020–21 season. Under new boss Enzo Maresca, they’ve added the Conference League to their trophy cabinet, becoming the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions.

Ending the 2024–25 campaign on a strong note, Chelsea won eight of their final nine games, including a commanding 4–1 victory over Real Betis in the Conference League final. With key players like Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo, and Nicolas Jackson fit and firing, the Blues will look to make a statement in their third Club World Cup appearance.

LAFC: Underdogs With Firepower

LAFC weren’t originally slated for this tournament, but after Mexican club Leon was disqualified, they earned their place by beating Club América 2–1 in a dramatic play-in match.

Now unbeaten in 10 straight games, and having scored 2+ goals in every one, LAFC arrive in form. Olivier Giroud, the former Chelsea man, leads the line alongside dynamic attackers Denis Bouanga and Kwadwo Yeboah, giving the Californians a puncher’s chance in their Club World Cup debut.

Recent Form

Chelsea (last 6): WWLWWW
LAFC (last 6): DWDDWW

Predicted Lineups

Chelsea (4-2-3-1):
Penders; James, Adarabioyo, Badiashile, Cucurella; Lavia, Essugo; Madueke, Palmer, Neto; Delap

LAFC (4-3-3):
Lloris; Palencia, Segura, Marlon, Hollingshead; Tillman, Jesus, Delgado; Yeboah, Giroud, Bouanga

Chelsea are without Wesley Fofana (injury) and Mykhaylo Mudryk (suspension), while LAFC are likely to miss midfielder Odin Holm due to a leg injury.

What to Expect

Chelsea have more quality on paper and greater depth, but LAFC’s fluid frontline and recent scoring form can’t be ignored. Expect the Premier League side to control possession and chances, though the MLS team could sneak a goal on the break.

The Kirib Prediction

Chelsea 3–1 LAFC
Chelsea should have too much class for the American side, even with some squad rotation. Giroud may score against his former club, but the Blues should open Group D with three points.