Football Buzzer
Fluminense arrive as underdogs but carry experience and spirit into their showdown with Chelsea. With suspensions impacting Renato Gaucho’s squad, here’s the Fluminense predicted lineup vs Chelsea for their Club World Cup semi-final.
- Date: Tuesday, July 8, 2025
- Kick-off: 20:00 (local time)
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA
Fluminense predicted lineup vs Chelsea – Club World Cup
Goalkeeper
Fabio
At 44 years old, Fabio remains a calming influence between the posts. He made crucial saves against Al-Hilal and will need another big performance to keep Chelsea’s attack quiet.
Defence
Right Centre-Back: Ignacio
Ignacio has been steady in this tournament and will start on the right of the back three. He is solid in duels and comfortable bringing the ball out from defence.
Central Centre-Back: Thiago Silva (c)
The captain is likely to play despite carrying a nose injury. Facing his former club, Silva’s leadership and positioning will be critical to organizing the defensive line.
Left Centre-Back: Lucas Fuentes
With Juan Pablo Freytes suspended, Fuentes is expected to come into the back three. He offers left-footed balance and decent aerial ability.
Fluminense vs Chelsea: Preview, team news, lineups, & prediction
Midfield
Right Wing-Back: Xavier
Xavier is set to keep his place on the flank. He will have to track Nkunku’s runs while also supporting the attack when Fluminense counter.
Left Wing-Back: Rene
Rene brings experience on the left and will be tasked with containing Angelo Neto and Malo Gusto’s overlapping runs. He also provides deliveries into the box on set-pieces.
Central Midfield: Hercules
Hercules came off the bench to score the winner against Al-Hilal. With Martinelli suspended, he should start in the middle to bring drive and late runs into the box.
Central Midfield: Nonato
Nonato has featured regularly in this campaign. His composure and ability to recycle possession will be important in transitions.
Central Midfield: Bernal
Bernal adds balance and energy to the midfield three. He will cover spaces behind Arias and help disrupt Chelsea’s buildup.
How to watch Fluminense vs Chelsea: TV channel, streaming and kick-off time
Attack
Right Forward: Jhon Arias
Arias has been Fluminense’s standout attacker in the tournament, leading the team in shots and chances created. He will drift inside to combine with Cano and look to run at Chelsea’s centre-backs.
Centre Forward: German Cano
Cano remains Flu’s main goal threat. He is clever with movement and can finish from any angle, making him a constant worry for Chelsea’s defence.
Fluminense predicted lineup vs Chelsea (3-5-2): Fabio; Ignacio, Thiago Silva, Fuentes; Xavier, Bernal, Nonato, Hercules, Rene; Arias, Cano.
Note: This Fluminense predicted lineup vs Chelsea is subject to final decisions from Renato Gaucho, who could adjust his shape or personnel depending on late fitness updates.
