The expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is underway, and Chelsea's campaign begins tonight against Los Angeles FC (LAFC) at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This marks the Blues' first match in Group D of the tournament, and they come into it riding high after clinching the UEFA Conference League title just under three weeks ago. Enzo Maresca's squad is eager to add another piece of silverware to their trophy cabinet.

Chelsea's squad features several new faces, including Liam Delap, Mamadou Sarr, Dario Essugo and Mike Penders who will be looking to make an immediate impact. Andrey Santos is also back with the team after a loan spell and is keen to impress. However, Wesley Fofana and Omari Kellyman are out due to injury. There were initial concerns about Cole Palmer's fitness, but he has recovered and is available for selection. The South American contingent of Santos, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Aaron Anselmino have all joined up with the squad in Philadelphia following international duty.

LAFC, representing Major League Soccer (MLS), secured their place in the Club World Cup after a play-off victory against Club America, stepping in for Club Leon. Chelsea will face a familiar face in LAFC's attack: Olivier Giroud, the former Chelsea striker. LAFC also boasts experience in their ranks with Hugo Lloris, the former Tottenham captain, expected to start in goal. LAFC will be without Odin Holm due to injury.

Chelsea's starting XI sees Robert Sanchez in goal, behind a strong defensive line of James, Tosin, Colwill and Cucurella. Caicedo and Lavia will anchor the midfield, with Neto, Palmer and Madueke supporting Jackson in attack. New signing Delap starts on the bench, alongside fellow new additions Sarr and Essugo, as well as Fernandez.

This is Chelsea's third appearance in the FIFA Club World Cup. They earned their spot in the tournament by winning the 2020/21 UEFA Champions League. Their Group D also includes Flamengo of Brazil and Esperance de Tunis.

The expanded Club World Cup features 32 teams competing in 63 matches across 12 venues in the United States. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages. Chelsea will be hoping to progress deep into the tournament and potentially add another title to their history.

The match kicks off at 8pm BST and is being broadcast on DAZN.