Esperance de Tunis vs. Chelsea Tips and Odds – 24/06/2025

• Fixture: Espérance de Tunis vs Chelsea
• Date: Tuesday, 24 June 2025
• Venue: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, USA

Match Preview

The final round of Group D in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup sees Espérance de Tunis and Chelsea face off in a high-stakes encounter at Lincoln Financial Field. Both teams are locked on three points after two matches, but Chelsea enjoy a superior goal difference, meaning a draw will be enough for the Blues to advance to the knockout rounds, while Espérance must go for the win. This is the first-ever competitive meeting between the two clubs, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already tense fixture.

Espérance de Tunis have surprised many with their resilience in this tournament. After a tough 2-0 defeat to Flamengo in their opener, they bounced back with a gritty 1-0 win over Los Angeles FC. However, their victory over LAFC was somewhat fortuitous, as the Americans missed a penalty and posted a higher expected goals tally. Domestically, Espérance have been dominant, winning the Tunisian league and cup double, but the step up in quality at the Club World Cup has tested their limits. Crucially, they will be without Youcef Belaili, their creative spark and match-winner against LAFC, who is suspended after picking up a second yellow card for simulation. This loss could blunt their attacking threat at a time when they need goals.

Chelsea, meanwhile, began their Club World Cup campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over LAFC, but their confidence was dented by a 3-1 defeat to Flamengo in their second match. The Blues took the lead through Pedro Neto but were undone by a second-half collapse, compounded by a red card to striker Nicolas Jackson, who is now suspended for this crucial fixture. Despite this setback, Chelsea’s form leading into the tournament was impressive, with eight wins in their last nine matches across all competitions, including victories over top Premier League sides and a UEFA Conference League triumph. Manager Enzo Maresca will be keen to see his side bounce back and secure safe passage to the last 16.

In terms of injuries, Espérance are missing only Roger Aholou (long-term), while Chelsea’s main absentee is Jackson due to suspension. Both managers are expected to field strong lineups, with Espérance likely recalling Yan Sasse to the starting XI after his absence last time out. For Chelsea, Delap is tipped to lead the line, supported by a creative trio of Madueke, Palmer, and Neto.

Key Players

• Espérance de Tunis: Yan Sasse (likely to return and provide attacking impetus), Rodrigo Rodrigues (goal threat), Mohamed Ben Said (goalkeeper, key to keeping Chelsea at bay).
• Chelsea: Cole Palmer (creative hub), Pedro Neto (scored against Flamengo), Enzo Fernandez (midfield control), Delap (striker in Jackson’s absence), Reece James (defensive leader).

Prediction

Given the gulf in squad depth and quality, Chelsea are strong favourites to win and progress. Espérance’s spirited performances have shown they are no pushovers, but the suspension of Belaili severely limits their attacking options. Chelsea’s attacking talent and technical superiority should see them through, though the Blues may not have it all their own way, especially if Espérance defend resolutely and look to hit on the break. Expect Chelsea to control possession and eventually break down the Tunisian champions, likely running out 2-0 winners.

Betting Markets & Odds

Chelsea are overwhelming favourites, but with both teams missing key attacking players, a low-scoring affair is likely. The under 3.5 goals and Chelsea win markets offer value for punters looking for a safer bet.