Top place in Chelsea’s Club World Cup group is likely to be up for grabs in Chelsea’s next game in the competition against Flamengo.
The Blues made light work of LAFC in their opening game. Goals either side of half-time from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez got the job done.
There was praise for Neto’s performance, while American media were impressed by Liam Delap as he made his Chelsea debut.
The Blues will be up against former player Jorginho on Friday night, who sit level with Chelsea after also winning their first group stage game 2-0.
Blues manager Enzo Maresca has hinted that he could be about to rotate his side for the next group game. Delap is now tipped to start after being on the bench for his debut.
On paper, it looks like Maresca’s side should be favourites, however the tournament so far should be the biggest indicator that this is not the case.
So far, no European team has beaten a side from South America. This includes Porto having to hold on to a point against Estevao Willian’s Palmeiras.
The future Chelsea star was the shining light of the game, however they were unable to break the deadlock against European opposition.
Borussia Dortmund also saw themselves unable to pick up a victory in their opening game, where they faced Fluminense and another Chelsea legend.
Thiago Silva performance sends Chelsea warning
Thiago Silva put in a mesmerising display at the back, with many finding it hard to believe that he is 40 years of age and very much in the twilight of his career.
Chelsea fans were wowed by Silva, as he helped shut out a side that consisted of top transfer target Jamie Gittens and Blues loanee Carney Chukwuemeka.
The Brazilian sent a heartfelt message to the Chelsea man after the game, as he still looks to get his future away from Stamford Bridge sorted this summer.
The majority of South American sides are midway through their domestic seasons, and Silva’s performance should be the biggest sign for Chelsea that they are going to need to be at their best if they are to beat the Brazilian side on Friday night.
