It wasn’t pretty, but Chelsea sealed progression to the FIFA Club World Cup final thanks to a 1-0 win over Al-Hilal. Chelsea went into the break deservedly ahead, but despite a strong group of players on the field, were unable to build on their lead. Romelu Lukaku scored his first goal since his interview controversy after the Asian champions failed to clear Kai Havertz’s cross. In the second half, it was Kepa Arrizabalaga who emerged as the hero with a couple of flying saves.
Only South American champions Palmeiras now stand between Chelsea and a trophy that’s missing from their cabinet. Chelsea did reach the finals in 2012, but slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Corinthians. But on Saturday, they will have another shot at being crowned World Champions.
Chelsea fail to sustain first half momentum
As was expected, it was Chelsea who dominated possession. They did most of the early running and played much of the football in Al-Hilal’s half. But with former Premier League players Odion Ighalo and Matheus Pereira, the Saudi Arabians always posed a threat on the break.
That threat grew substantially in the second half. Chelsea allowed Al-Hilal a route back and were nearly punished. If it wasn’t for Kepa, they might even have been packing their bags at this stage. But the Blues weathered the Al-Hilal storm and booked their place in Saturday’s final.
Club World Cup is an important trophy for the Blues
Ever since Roman Abramovich arrived, the inflow of trophies at Stamford Bridge has been consistent. However, the Club World Cup is a trophy the Blues are yet to lift. Having failed at the final last time, Chelsea will be determined to go the extra mile this time. In doing so, they will join Liverpool and Man United as the English clubs to be World Champions.
Chelsea are effectively out of the title race, but are still in the running in all cup competitions. Aside from the final on Saturday, Chelsea have a League Cup final later this month against Liverpool. They have already progressed to the fifth round of FA Cup and have a Champions League to defend. The Europe’s top competition is also returning with the round of 16.