Chelsea should be able to overcome Palmeiras, given the strength of their squad and the numerous options Enzo Maresca has at his disposal. However, given that the Blues have already suffered a defeat at the hands of a Brazilian team in this competition, they will need to be wary of the dangers Palmeiras may pose in this game.
Palmeiras are not to be underestimated, as the side entered this tournament with six wins from their previous eight games and have remained unbeaten in this competition, securing their progression to the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win against Botafogo. Defensively, they have proved to be a tough team to breach, as they have kept three clean sheets in their four games at the FIFA Club World Cup. The one thing that could prove a slight psychological edge for Chelsea is that the Blues beat Palmeiras in the 2022 FIFA Club World Cup final.
Enzo Maresca's side have won three of their four matches in this competition, and their overall form has been excellent, securing six wins from their last eight games. The stats show that Chelsea certainly possesses strong options in the attacking areas, as they scored first in six of their last seven games. Chelsea have looked to further strengthen their options by reportedly securing the services of Brighton & Hove Albion forward João Pedro.
One player who we think will make the difference is Liam Delap. The former Ipswich Town striker possesses excellent qualities in terms of strength and natural scoring ability, which will be perfect for this ever-growing side. Delap has two goal contributions in four appearances for his new club.
We are going for a 2-0 win for the Blues. Palmeiras are yet to face an opponent of the quality of the team from the Premier League, and there could be a mismatch here.
Palmeiras 0-2 Chelsea.
