LAFC opened Group D play at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 with a 2-0 loss to English Premier League heavyweight Chelsea FC at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Ga. on Monday night.
The Black & Gold defended well throughout the game, but a 16th minute shot from Chelsea’s Noni Madueke that drew a strong save from LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, signaled the threat of the EPL side.
As LAFC worked to find its offense, Chelsea broke through in the 34th minute when Pedro Neto cut into the Black & Gold box, lost his defender and slotted a low shot inside the near right post.
LAFC brought on forward Olivier Giroud at half time in an effort to generate some offense against his former club, and while his introduction coincided with the Black & Gold begin more dangerous in the second half, it was Chelsea that found the goal.
Enzo Fernandez's strike in the 79th minute gave Chelsea a 2-0 advantage that ultimately stood as the final score.
LAFC continues Group D play on Friday, June 20 when the club faces Tunisian champion ES Tunis at GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tenn. The match is free to watch on DAZN.com and the DAZN app. Radio broadcasts in English and Spanish will also be available on LAFC.com.
