Chelsea’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-final came at a steep price, as they now face Fluminense in the semi-final without key figures.
Chief among the absentees is £30 million summer signing Liam Delap, who is suspended, and there are fresh doubts surrounding club captain Reece James after he suffered another injury setback. Manager Enzo Maresca finds himself with more questions than answers ahead of Tuesday’s showdown.
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Why Liam Delap Is Suspended for the Club World Cup Semi-Final
Delap’s promising run at Chelsea has hit an early roadblock. The former Ipswich striker, who joined for £30m this summer, was handed a second yellow card of the tournament for a challenge on a Palmeiras defender. Under FIFA’s strict Club World Cup disciplinary rules, this means automatic suspension for the semi-final clash against Brazilian side Fluminense.
It’s a frustrating blow, especially given that Delap was brought off early in the second half during the quarter-final and had shown signs of forming a strong partnership with Cole Palmer.
Reece James Injury Woes Continue
Captain Reece James was set to return for the quarter-final but hobbled out during the warm-up. Maresca confirmed the right-back “felt something” and did not risk worsening the situation. Given his injury history, James remains a major doubt for the semi-final. His continued absence leaves Chelsea lacking leadership and stability at the back.
Malo Gusto, who filled in and ultimately scored the winner (albeit via a deflection), will likely retain his place. But Maresca’s reluctance to take chances with James suggests that Chelsea’s skipper might not return until the final—if they get there.
More Injury & Suspension Woes for Chelsea
Chelsea’s growing injury list doesn’t stop at James and Delap:
| Player | Reason for Absence |
|---|---|
| Liam Delap | Suspended (second yellow card) |
| Reece James | Injury (pulled out during warm-up) |
| Levi Colwill | Suspended (second yellow vs Palmeiras) |
| Romeo Lavia | Fitness issue, not risked last match |
| Moisés Caicedo | Suspended |
| Christopher Nkunku | Poor form, subbed early |
Levi Colwill joins Delap in suspension due to accumulated yellow cards, while Romeo Lavia was again kept out of the squad as a precaution. Caicedo remains suspended, and Nkunku, subbed off after a disappointing display, might not start again.
Chelsea’s Emerging Options and Tactical Juggles
Despite these setbacks, Maresca isn’t short on options:
- João Pedro, signed from Brighton, impressed on debut and could lead the line in Delap’s absence.
- Noni Madueke added spark on the left when introduced and is pushing for a start.
- Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong remain available in central defence.
- Andrey Santos, given his first start in midfield, showed composure despite the pressure.
João Pedro and Palmer’s chemistry in the final third will be vital, and Chelsea fans may get another glimpse of their exciting future—with Palmeiras star Estêvão also set to join the Blues after this tournament.
Fluminense Await in the Semi-Final
Next up? A tricky Fluminense side that beat Al-Hilal to reach the semis. Tuesday’s clash in New Jersey will also see Chelsea reunite with club legend Thiago Silva, now back in Brazil and ready to frustrate his old team.
With a £97 million windfall and a shot at global silverware on the line, Maresca must rally his patched-up squad and navigate the storm—without several of his best players.
Chelsea vs Palmeiras – Club World Cup Quarter-Final Stats
| Chelsea | Palmeiras |
|---|---|
| Goals Scored | 2 (Palmer 16′, Gusto 83’ OG) |
| Goals Conceded | 1 (Estêvão 53′) |
| Possession | 55% |
| Shots on Target | 7 |
| Bookings | 4 |
| Key Absences | James (injury), Caicedo (susp.), Delap (red) |
Chelsea’s journey to Club World Cup glory is still alive, but the road just got rockier. With Liam Delap suspended, Reece James injured, and several key names sidelined, Enzo Maresca’s tactical acumen and squad depth will be put to the test. But with talents like João Pedro, Palmer, and Pedro Neto in the mix, the Blues’ future remains glowing—if they can weather this storm.
FAQs
Why is Liam Delap missing Chelsea’s semi-final against Fluminense?
Delap is suspended after receiving his second yellow card of the tournament during the win over Palmeiras.
What happened to Reece James before the quarter-final?
James pulled out during the warm-up due to discomfort and is now a doubt for the semi-final.
Who could replace Liam Delap in the lineup?
New signing João Pedro and returning striker Nicolas Jackson are potential replacements.
Is Levi Colwill also suspended?
Yes, Colwill received a second yellow card in the tournament and is suspended for the Fluminense clash.
When and where is the Club World Cup semi-final?
Chelsea face Fluminense on Tuesday in New Jersey at Lincoln Financial Field.
