FIFA Slashes Chelsea-Fluminense Semifinal Tickets to $13.40 at MetLife Stadium

FIFA, led by President Gianni Infantino, has dramatically slashed ticket prices for the Club World Cup semifinal between Chelsea and Fluminense at MetLife Stadium to as low as $13.40, down from an initial $473.90, in an effort to boost attendance amid a pattern of sparse crowds at the tournament. This pricing strategy follows similar reductions in earlier rounds and contrasts with steady ticket prices for the other semifinal featuring Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, which consistently attracts large crowds. Despite the tournament's thrilling matches, football's relatively modest popularity in the U.S. and criticism over the expanded tournament format have contributed to the struggle for higher attendance. Critics, including La Liga president Javier Tebas and former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, have condemned the Club World Cup for its negative impact on players and the football calendar. FIFA remains committed to proving the tournament's viability to clubs, sponsors, and broadcasters, hoping the lower prices will create a vibrant atmosphere and reinforce the event's global significance. The move underscores FIFA's gamble on passion and accessibility to turn around the tournament's reception.