Football often writes its own scripts, and one of the more intriguing storylines could unfold in Chelsea’s Group D opener against LAFC.
The match could see Chelsea come face-to-face with a familiar figure: Olivier Giroud. The French striker, who scored 39 goals in 119 appearances for Chelsea, is now with LAFC.
Having left European football behind, Giroud likely never imagined he would once again line up against his former club—but LAFC’s play-in victory has set the stage for a surprise reunion.
At 38, Giroud is unlikely to start, but he could still make an impact from the bench—especially considering he’s found the net in his last two MLS outings.
Club World Cup Group D Fixtures
Matchday 1
• Chelsea vs. Los Angeles FC – Monday, June 16
• Flamengo vs. Esperance de Tunis – Tuesday, June 17
Matchday 2
• Flamengo vs. Chelsea – Friday, June 20
• Los Angeles FC vs. Esperance de Tunis – Friday, June 20
Matchday 3
• Esperance de Tunis vs. Chelsea – Wednesday, June 25
• Los Angeles FC vs. Flamengo – Wednesday, June 25
