Joao Pedro scored twice on his full debut to send Chelsea into the FIFA Club World Cup final with a commanding 2-0 win over Brazilian side Fluminense at MetLife Stadium.
In a performance defined by control and composure, Enzo Maresca’s side took their chances clinically, with Pedro starting in place of the suspended Liam Delap firing home two stunning goals to cap a night of promise and poise.
The 23-year-old Brazilian announced himself to Blues fans in spectacular fashion.
He struck first in the 18th minute with a thunderous drive into the far corner from 20 yards, and sealed the result shortly after the break with a fierce strike in off the bar after a solo run.
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Chelsea, who next face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final, rarely looked troubled, showing maturity throughout to keep Fluminense at arm’s length.
Pedro’s Perfect Start
Chelsea made three changes heading into the semi-final, with Moises Caicedo and Tosin Adarabioyo stepping in for Andrey Santos and the suspended Levi Colwill, while Joao Pedro was handed his full debut up front.
The Blues quickly asserted control, dominating early possession and fashioning half-chances before Pedro broke the deadlock with a moment of brilliance.
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After a cleared cross fell kindly to him, the Brazilian forward arrowed a first-time strike across goal and into the corner past Fluminense’s veteran goalkeeper Fabio.
There was minimal celebration from Pedro, a gesture of respect to his former club but Chelsea’s momentum only grew from there.
Pedro Neto and Malo Gusto both threatened before the interval, while Fluminense’s best opportunity was denied by Marc Cucurella, who cleared a German Cano effort off the line.
No Way Back for Fluminense
Fluminense made tactical changes at the break, shifting to a back four and pressing forward.
But it left them exposed and Chelsea punished them. Joao Pedro pounced on a flowing move initiated by Pedro Neto, evading Ignacio before crashing a shot in off the bar.
Pedro allowed himself a brief smile this time, having put the tie beyond doubt.
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With the lead secure, Chelsea managed the final half-hour expertly. Sanchez was rarely troubled, and while chances came for Nkunku, Jackson, and Gusto, the Blues were content to keep Fluminense contained.
Late changes from Maresca, including the introduction of captain Reece James and Dewsbury-Hall, helped preserve energy for what could be a historic final.
What It Means
Chelsea will return to MetLife Stadium on Sunday aiming to lift their second Club World Cup title.
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Real Madrid and PSG meet in the other semi-final tomorrow, with the winner setting up a mouthwatering clash against the Blues.
Joao Pedro scored twice on his full debut as Chelsea defeated Fluminense 2-0 to reach the FIFA Club World Cup final. The Blues will face either Real Madrid or PSG in Sunday’s showdown.
