Joao Pedro Shines! Chelsea Storm into Club World Cup Final!
Chelsea are through to the Club World Cup final after a dominant 2-0 victory over Fluminense, thanks to a sensational performance from debutant Joao Pedro. The £60 million signing from Brighton bagged two stunning goals, one in each half, to seal the win at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Pedro's Dream Debut
Joao Pedro, making his first start for the Blues, wasted no time in making an impact. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement proved too much for the Brazilian side, where he began his footballing journey. He refrained from celebrating his goals as a mark of respect for his former club.
Maresca's Delight
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca was full of praise for Pedro, highlighting his ability to unlock tight defences. "We knew what Joao was like. We brought him in because this season we faced many teams with low blocks and his quality is very good against these kinds of teams," Maresca said.
Chelsea had a couple of nervy moments, with Marc Cucurella clearing a shot off the line. However, they ultimately controlled the game and secured their place in the final.
What's Next?
Chelsea will now face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final on Sunday. This is the first edition of the expanded Club World Cup, and Chelsea will be hoping to lift the trophy and add another piece of silverware to their cabinet.
- Chelsea: Sanchez (6), Gusto (6), Tosin (6), Chalobah (6), Cucurella (7), Caicedo (7), Fernandez (7), Neto (7), Palmer (6), Nkunku (6), Joao Pedro (9).
- Fluminense: Fabio (6), Da Silva Oliveira (6), Thiago Silva (6), Dos Santos (6), Guga (6), Hercules (7), Bernal (5), Nonato (5), Rodrigues (6), Arias (6), Cano (6).
The final promises to be a thrilling encounter, and Chelsea will be looking to Joao Pedro to continue his impressive form.