João Pedro Sends Chelsea to Final with Bittersweet Brace
Chelsea’s rising star João Pedro delivered a standout performance Tuesday night at MetLife Stadium, scoring twice to lead his new club to a 2-0 win over Fluminense in the Club World Cup semifinal. But the goals didn’t come without emotion — both strikes came against the Brazilian team that gave him his start.
“It’s bittersweet,” Pedro said. “Fluminense gave me everything. They believed in me. But I had to do my job.”
Scoring Against His Roots
Pedro, just 23 years old, made headlines last week after transferring from Brighton to Chelsea. Despite barely settling in — and with only one match under his belt — he started Tuesday’s semifinal with full intent.
He opened the scoring in the 18th minute, striking a beautiful shot that gave Chelsea the early lead. Then, early in the second half, he sealed the win with a second clinical finish. Both times, Pedro raised his hands in a gesture of apology, a silent nod to the club that shaped him.
As his teammates celebrated around him, Pedro remained composed, managing only a small smile after his second goal.
Humble in Victory
Speaking post-match, Pedro emphasized professionalism and gratitude.
“They showed me to the world. I’ll always be grateful. But I’m a professional now, and this is football,” he said.
Pedro’s first appearance for Chelsea came in their 2-1 quarterfinal win over Palmeiras, just days after his transfer. Now, with two goals in the semifinal, he has firmly announced his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
“Starting tonight gave me the chance to show more of what I can do,” he said. “The team played well, and that’s what matters most.”
A Strategic Signing Pays Off
Pedro joined Chelsea as part of a focused effort to strengthen their attacking options. His arrival followed the signing of Liam Delap, another promising forward. Together, they’re expected to reinforce a Chelsea side that’s already coming off a strong 2024–25 season, finishing fourth in the Premier League and lifting the UEFA Conference League trophy.
Next Stop: The Final
With Fluminense behind them, Chelsea now prepares for the Club World Cup final on Sunday, awaiting the winner of Wednesday’s semifinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
Head coach Enzo Maresca will no doubt be pleased with Pedro’s early impact, as Chelsea aims to add another title to their growing collection.
Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for full coverage of the Club World Cup Final and Chelsea’s latest headlines.
