The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues with a notable clash featuring English Premier League powerhouse Chelsea and Major League Soccer side LAFC. Chelsea is recognized globally and will compete in the UEFA Champions League next season following a fourth-place finish in the EPL. LAFC, MLS champions in 2022 and U.S. Open Cup winners last season, currently hold fifth place in the Western Conference standings.
The match is set to take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Betting odds indicate Chelsea are strong favorites, with LAFC listed as significant underdogs. The over/under for total goals is currently set at 3.5. For expert insights on this fixture, we turn to SportsLine soccer specialist Martin Green.
Martin Green has a track record of successful soccer predictions, showing profitability across various competitions including Euro qualifying, EFL Cup, FA Cup, and Champions League.
Martin Green`s Expert Picks:
Expert Pick 1: Chelsea -1.5 (Odds: -120)
Chelsea ranks among Europe`s top clubs, suggesting a considerable difference in talent between the two sides. Since new ownership took over in 2022, Chelsea has invested heavily in players, spending around $1.6 billion in transfer fees, compared to approximately $88 million spent by LAFC since their establishment in 2018. Chelsea finished their domestic season strongly, winning eight of their last nine matches across all competitions, while LAFC is currently navigating a less consistent period in their ongoing MLS campaign. Green believes Chelsea`s deep squad means they should have more than enough quality to overcome LAFC comfortably in Atlanta.
Expert Pick 2: Chelsea to score over 2.5 goals (Odds: +108)
LAFC faces a disadvantage due to being mid-season in MLS, requiring them to manage player fatigue and fitness while participating in this global tournament. Chelsea, despite completing a long EPL season, concluded it in exceptional form, culminating in a fourth-place finish securing Champions League football and an impressive 4-1 victory in the UEFA Conference League Final. Although Chelsea players might be looking towards rest before the next season, the club`s significant squad depth provides ample attacking options even with rotation.
Expert Pick 3: Both teams to score (Odds: -110)
The precise level of intensity clubs will bring to this tournament at this stage remains somewhat uncertain. The match represents a classic encounter showcasing the difference between English and American football styles. MLS teams typically strive to demonstrate their competitiveness against established European sides, while EPL clubs aim to assert their league`s global standing. Green notes that Chelsea`s defense can sometimes be vulnerable, potentially allowing LAFC to score. However, he is confident that Chelsea`s attacking strength will ensure they net multiple goals against LAFC`s goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris.
Benedict Kingsley