ES Tunis vs Chelsea: Live Match Day Drama Unfolds
The final showdown in Group D of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup sees ES Tunis take on Chelsea in a high-stakes clash at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia. With both teams tied on points, tonight's outcome will determine who advances—and who goes home.
Battle Lines Drawn: Match Context & Group Standings
For the first time in history, ES Tunis face off against Chelsea FC in competitive play. Both teams enter the game with three points each, making this match a virtual knockout.
Updated Group D Table (Before Kick-off)
| Team | P | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flamengo | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 4 |
| Chelsea | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | — | — | — | 3 |
| ES Tunis | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | — | — | — | 3 |
| LAFC | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | — | — | — | 0 |
Chelsea needs just a draw to advance, while ES Tunis must win to progress to the next round.
Match Essentials: Time, Line-Ups, Broadcast
Quick Match Facts
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Kick‑Off: 25 June, 03:00 (local Philadelphia time)
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Stadium: Lincoln Financial Field
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Referee: Yael Falcón Pérez (Argentina)
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Watch Live: DAZN (global); Live commentary on AS.com
Team News & Tactics
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Chelsea: 8 changes from the previous match. Stars like Cole Palmer and Caicedo rested; striker Nicolas Jackson suspended.
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ES Tunis: Missing captain Yassine Meriah due to injury. Compact, counterattacking setup expected.
First-Half Recap: Tension Without Goals
The match has kicked off in hot and humid conditions. Chelsea hold possession but lack penetration. ES Tunis defend deep and wait to strike on the break.
Key Moments So Far
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20’ – Christopher Nkunku misses a good chance from inside the box.
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30’ – ES Tunis have a goal ruled out for offside.
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45’+2’ – Chelsea penalty appeal overturned by VAR.
Half-Time Score: 0–0
What to Expect in the Second Half
With Chelsea needing just a point, they may play cautiously. But if ES Tunis score first, pressure will mount.
Key Second-Half Questions
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Will Enzo Maresca introduce youth like Tyrique George or Marc Guiu?
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Can Chelsea's defense handle late counters?
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Will the humid conditions lead to fatigue and mistakes?
Match Timeline: Minute-by-Minute Highlights
| Time | Action | Score |
|---|---|---|
| 00′ | Kick-off | 0–0 |
| 20′ | Nkunku misses big opportunity | 0–0 |
| 30′ | ES Tunis goal ruled offside | 0–0 |
| 45′+2′ | VAR overturns Chelsea’s penalty appeal | 0–0 |
| 45′+3′ | Half-time whistle | 0–0 |
Why This Match Is a Global Talking Point
Chelsea are expected to compete for the title, but their form in this tournament has been inconsistent. ES Tunis, by contrast, have been overachieving and now stand a win away from stunning the world.
What’s at Stake
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Chelsea Victory or Draw: Advance to face Benfica in the last-16.
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ES Tunis Win: Chelsea eliminated, and ES Tunis make history.
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Chelsea Loss: Major upset and early exit for the Premier League side.
Tactical Breakdown: Who’s Winning the Chess Game?
Chelsea's heavy rotation could hurt their rhythm. Without star striker Jackson, they rely on midfielders for goals. ES Tunis, meanwhile, are physically robust and mentally sharp—used to the underdog role and thriving in it.
Summary: It All Comes Down to 45 Minutes
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Possession: Chelsea dominate but aren’t creating clear chances.
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Defense: ES Tunis stay compact and frustrate Chelsea’s midfield.
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Heat Factor: Conditions are draining players quickly.
The second half is set to be dramatic. One moment of brilliance—or one mistake—could decide the fate of both clubs.
What Fans Should Do Next
If you're tuning in now:
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Watch the second half live on DAZN or follow match threads online.
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Get real-time stats on live football apps like FotMob or OneFootball.
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Join the conversation using hashtags #ESTunisVsChelsea #ClubWorldCup
Final Word: A Continental Clash for the Ages
Whether you're supporting Chelsea's global powerhouse or ES Tunis's passionate rise, this is what football is all about. Underdogs vs giants. History vs pedigree. Desire vs expectation.
