Chelsea’s journey in the FIFA Club World Cup has hit a significant bump ahead of the semi-final showdown against Brazilian side Fluminense, as Liam Delap and Levi Colwill have both been ruled out due to suspension.

The young duo picked up crucial yellow cards during Chelsea’s hard-fought 2-1 quarter-final victory over Palmeiras, triggering automatic one-match bans under FIFA’s strict disciplinary regulations.

According to tournament rules, players who accumulate two yellow cards across different matches before the semi-final are suspended for one game.

Chelsea fans will recall that Moises Caicedo already missed the quarter-final due to a similar suspension, having collected two bookings in earlier rounds. While FIFA wipes yellow cards clean after the quarter-final stage, that comes as little comfort for Mauricio Pochettino, who will now be without two key players for the semi-final clash.

Liam Delap, who has impressed in recent outings with his energy and attacking threat, and Levi Colwill, a dependable figure in defence, will now have to watch from the sidelines as the Blues battle for a place in the final. Their absence will no doubt force tactical tweaks from Enzo Maresca, who has already had to carefully juggle his options due to injuries and tight schedules.

The silver lining? Key players including Reece James, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, Marc Cucurella, and Tosin Adarabioyo managed to stay disciplined and avoid bookings in the previous round. They remain available and could be crucial to Chelsea’s hopes of progressing.

This development puts added pressure on the rest of the squad to tread carefully. With the yellow card slate now wiped clean, the focus shifts to avoiding red cards and further bans as Chelsea aim to lift the prestigious Club World Cup trophy.

A place in the final is within reach, but the Blues will have to navigate this semi-final without two promising young stars. Can they rise to the occasion? The road to global glory continues.
Up the Chels! 🔵