Chelsea Defeat LAFC 2-0 in Club World Cup Opener as Pedro Neto Shines with Stunning Goal – Full Highlights and Stats
By Okafor Joseph, Editor | June 17, 2025 | SpringnewsNG Media Limited
Sports
Premier League side Chelsea kicked off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with an impressive 2-0 win over MLS giants Los Angeles FC in their Group D opener, thanks to goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez.
Fresh off their UEFA Conference League triumph, Chelsea looked confident and composed under new manager Enzo Maresca. The London club dominated the first half, barely needing to hit full throttle as they controlled possession and tempo. Their superiority was rewarded in the 34th minute when Portuguese winger Pedro Neto broke the deadlock with a moment of individual brilliance.
Nicolas Jackson dropped into midfield to receive the ball and played a perfectly weighted pass behind the LAFC backline. Neto, showcasing Premier League quality, feinted a shot with his right foot, shifted onto his left, and curled a low strike into the near post to give the Blues a deserved 1-0 lead going into halftime.
Despite a more spirited performance from Los Angeles FC in the second half, including several attacking bursts that tested Chelsea’s backline, the Premier League side remained solid. Goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic made key saves to preserve the lead.
Chelsea sealed the victory in the dying moments when Enzo Fernandez found the net to double the lead and secure all three points. The Argentine midfielder finished a slick move in the 88th minute, ensuring the Blues began their Club World Cup campaign in perfect fashion.
Match Stats
- Score: Chelsea 2-0 Los Angeles FC
- Goals:
- Pedro Neto (34′)
- Enzo Fernandez (88′)
- Possession: Chelsea 62% – LAFC 38%
- Shots on Target: Chelsea 6 – LAFC 3
- Man of the Match: Pedro Neto (Chelsea)
With this victory, Chelsea top Group D and will look to maintain momentum in their next fixture. Los Angeles FC, meanwhile, will need a strong response to keep their hopes alive in the tournament.
