Chelsea kicked off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a comfortable 2-0 win over LAFC, but all eyes were on one player: Liam Delap. Making his first competitive start for the Blues, the 21-year-old forward showed precisely why the club trusted him with the No.9 shirt. This Liam Delap first match was more than just a debut—it was a statement.
A Confident Start to Life at Chelsea
Much had been made of Delap’s transfer from Ipswich Town to Chelsea earlier this summer, especially after his impressive Championship season. Yet despite the pressure and occasion, Liam Delap’s first match in Chelsea colors was filled with poise and maturity. Lining up as the lone striker in Enzo Maresca’s 4-2-3-1 formation, Delap immediately showed his trademark aggression and work ethic.
His hold-up play was sharp, linking well with attacking midfielders Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke. Though he didn’t get on the scoresheet, Delap’s movement created space for others, especially during the opening goal scored by Palmer in the 24th minute.
Tactical Role and Influence
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From the opening whistle, Delap pressed with intent. He harassed LAFC’s backline, forcing early mistakes and limiting their ability to build from the back. It’s a role Maresca has envisioned for him—a relentless, physical No.9 capable of unsettling defenses.
One of the standout moments in Liam Delap’s first match came in the 40th minute, when he muscled through two defenders to fire a shot that went just wide. It was a glimpse of what Chelsea fans can expect: strength, pace, and a constant goal threat.
While the second goal was eventually netted by Christopher Nkunku, it was Delap’s earlier run that disrupted the LAFC defense and created the opening.
Fan and Manager Reaction
Chelsea fans across social media praised Delap’s tenacity, even though he didn’t score. Many noted that the young striker added a new dimension to Chelsea’s attack—something that had been missing in recent seasons.
Manager Enzo Maresca, in his post-match interview, remarked: “Liam gave us a lot today—his energy, his pressing, his physicality. Goals will come, but what we needed today was presence and pressure, and he delivered.”
The Bigger Picture
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This Liam Delap first match performance signals that Chelsea may have finally found a long-term option up front. With a packed Club World Cup schedule and Premier League season ahead, rotation will be crucial, and Delap looks ready to take on the responsibility.
Given Chelsea’s struggles to find consistency in the No.9 role since the days of Diego Costa and Didier Drogba, fans are hopeful that Delap could finally be the answer. His debut showed all the right signs—hunger, fitness, and a clear understanding of the tactical system.
What’s Next for Delap?
Chelsea face Flamengo next in what will be a sterner test. Whether Maresca chooses to start Delap again or bring him on later, one thing is clear: he’s already made an impression.
If he continues to build on this momentum, there’s no reason why Liam Delap’s first match won’t be the start of a breakout season.
Chelsea Club World Cup Match Recap: Blues Beat LAFC 2-0 in Tournament Opener
