Chelsea is set to play ES Tunis in their final match of Group D, a game that is absolutely crucial. The Blues require just one point from this evening`s fixture to guarantee their place in the last-16 phase of the Club World Cup.
Enzo Maresca`s team is now only able to secure second position in Group D, following their 3-1 defeat to Flamengo on Friday night, which put the Brazilian side three points clear at the top of the standings.
A loss for Chelsea tonight would result in their elimination from the Club World Cup, as ES Tunis would overtake them in the group table.
Key Match Details
- Kick-off Time: 2am BST
- Live Stream: Available FREE on DAZN
- ES Tunis Team: To be confirmed
- Chelsea Team: To be confirmed
Latest Updates and News
Gittens Transfer Target
While the team is busy on the pitch, Chelsea`s off-field activities continue. There have been persistent rumours linking Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens with the club. Reports suggest that Chelsea is his preferred destination this summer, and the club is optimistic about completing a deal in the near future.
Santos Awaiting Debut
Midfielder Andrey Santos impressed greatly during his loan spell at Strasbourg last season, but he has yet to make an appearance for Chelsea. Despite a less successful previous loan at Nottingham Forest, the Brazilian now appears ready to play at the top level.
With Chelsea`s official pre-season starting after the Club World Cup, it`s possible Maresca is holding him back. However, given Santos` evident talent and value, a debut for the Blues tonight remains a real possibility.
Neto`s Scoring Form
Pedro Neto has adapted exceptionally well to the Club World Cup competition. The Portuguese winger carried his strong form from winning the Nations League final with Portugal into this tournament. His two goals so far make him Chelsea’s leading scorer in the Club World Cup.
The key question is whether he can maintain his scoring run in tonight`s crucial match.
Jackson`s Suspension Impact
Nicolas Jackson will be unavailable for this match, serving a suspension. He missed the end of the Premier League season due to a red card against Newcastle (although he scored in the Conference League final). He also received a red card in the Club World Cup match against Flamengo.
His sending off against Flamengo significantly altered the game, contributing to Chelsea`s 3-1 loss while playing with ten men. Liam Delap is expected to start in Jackson`s absence and has a chance to prove he deserves to be the first-choice striker for the upcoming season.
Current Group Standings
With two games completed in the group stage, only one remains. Flamengo has secured qualification, and LAFC is eliminated. Chelsea and ES Tunis are competing directly for the second knockout spot.
- Flamengo – 6 points
- Chelsea – 3 points
- ES Tunis – 3 points
- LAFC – 0 points
This makes the final match between Chelsea and ES Tunis a decisive encounter for progression in the tournament.
