With Group D being rather simple for Chelsea can they go through with ease
With the FIFA Club World Cup less than a week away, we take a look at the teams from Group D and assess their chances of progressing to the next round. Group D includes Chelsea, Flamengo, ES Tunis, and Los Angeles FC. Although not as competitive as some of the other groups, the likes of Flamengo and LAFC are clubs to look out for. This group seems relatively straightforward for Chelsea, although they can expect to face tough games from Flamengo and LAFC. Some players that you can expect to light up this group are Jackson, Palmer, Bouanga, and Pedro.
ES Tunis may be a force in Africa but are fragile compared to other teams around the world
Just like the other minnows in this tournament, ES Tunis are just here to have a good time. Despite the Tunis club having a low chance of progression, getting a place in this competition is an achievement on its own. ES Tunis, however, was the best-ranked CAF side in the last four years, further emphasizing their dominance in Africa. Even though they may be a dominant force on the African continent, it is hard to see a way for them to get anything better than 4th in the group.
Any progression to the knockout stage would be a strong result for Flamengo
The 2022 Copa Libertadores winners are handed the difficult task of progressing into the knockout stage. Before Club León was knocked out of the tournament, it seemed like their path to the knockout stage was clearer. However, the arrival of Los Angeles FC further complicates matters for them. For neutrals, though, it is a much more thrilling encounter, as it makes it harder to call when looking at who will progress. Flamengo arrive in this tournament in good form, as they sit in first place in the Brazilian League. The side from Rio has displayed dangerous counterattacks, which are often unpredictable and can easily catch the opposition out.
LAFC given major boost
The 2022 MLS Champions were handed a lifeline when León was kicked out of the Club World Cup for violating tournament rules. They happily took the opportunity that was handed to them by defeating Club América in the playoffs. This side has the potential to be a dark horse; after all, they nearly knocked out Inter Miami after a solid defensive display. They must, however, first get the better of Flamengo, who are known for their unpredictable counterattacks and their aggressive pressing. Flamengo will present a test for their defense, as will Chelsea, who are known for their ability to create overloads when attacking. The tie between them and Flamengo may just come down to individual brilliance, which they have in their squad in Giroud and Bouanga. These world-class attackers have the strengths to break down Flamengo’s defense, and that may just be what settles the contest.
Chelsea hoping to coast through their group
It is not absurd by any means to back Chelsea to go all the way. After all, the Blues have made major improvements over the last few seasons, moving from 12th to 6th and securing a Champions League place. Going far in this competition could give Chelsea a major boost going into next season as they seek to bring pride back to Stamford Bridge. Their scary counterattacks, which often leave defenses outnumbered, can be a daunting sight for any club. Chelsea, though, are susceptible to set pieces and play a high line, which could see attacking players from other teams get in behind their defense. However, Chelsea will be confident in their strengths and have more than enough individual brilliance to cause teams problems.
