A brace from new signing Joao Pedro against his boyhood club propelled Chelsea to a 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal on Tuesday. The English side will now advance to the final of the tournament.
Playing at a sweltering MetLife Stadium, the 23-year-old Brazilian, who recently transferred from Brighton, proved to be the decisive factor in a competitive encounter. His first goal came in the 18th minute with a spectacular curling shot from the edge of the box that left Fluminense goalkeeper Fábio with no chance. In a show of respect for his former team, where he spent a significant part of his youth career, Joao Pedro's celebration was muted.
Fluminense, the reigning Copa Libertadores champions, battled to find an equalizer and had a strong penalty appeal for a handball waved off after a VAR review. Despite periods of pressure, the Brazilian club struggled to break down a resolute Chelsea defense.
The match was put beyond doubt in the 56th minute when Joao Pedro struck again. A swift Chelsea counter-attack saw him receive the ball, cut inside a defender, and unleash a powerful strike that sealed the win and his man-of-the-match performance.
The game also marked an emotional return for Fluminense's veteran defender Thiago Silva, who faced the club he captained to Champions League glory. Despite his leadership at the back, Fluminense could not contain a dynamic Chelsea attack.
With this victory, Chelsea continues its quest for a second Club World Cup title, having previously won the competition in 2021. They will face the winner of the other semifinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the final on Sunday.
