João Pedro Shines on Chelsea Debut Against Fluminense

João Pedro had a great start to his Chelsea career. He scored twice against his old team Fluminense to win 2-0 and reach the FIFA Club World Cup final.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER AT METLIFE STADIUM

Just six days after leaving Brighton, João Pedro started for Chelsea in the Club World Cup semi-final. He played because Liam Delap was suspended. He scored in the 18th minute with a strong shot and got his second goal early in the second half. He didn’t celebrate much, showing respect to Fluminense fans—a club where he spent many years as a youth player. After the match, Pedro said, “They gave everything to me. If I’m here, it’s because they believed in me. I feel sorry for them but I have to do my job.”

IMPACT ON CHELSEA’S SEASON

Pedro’s quick impact helps Chelsea, who needs more attacking options. They signed Liam Delap this summer for a fee reported to be up to £60 million along with other signings, including Jamie Bynoe-Gittens and João Pedro himself. Chelsea wants to build on a good 2024-25 season after they secured a fourth place finish in the Premier League, guaranteeing Champions League qualification, and won the UEFA Conference League.

According to a previous report, Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League last season, and they won the Europa Conference League last season.

This win puts Chelsea in the Club World Cup final and shows their depth and goals under coach Enzo Maresca. Pedro became the first Brazilian to score for Chelsea since Thiago Silva in the 2023-24 season.

LOOKING AHEAD: FINAL SHOWDOWN

Chelsea’s next match is the Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium. They will play against Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain. Both teams are top European clubs. Real Madrid failed to win LaLiga last season, and PSG was top in Ligue 1 and the Champions League. Chelsea wants to win another major trophy after an impressive summer. Fluminense, who finished third in the 2024 Brasileirão, will try to bounce back as they return to domestic games in Brazil.

The final is scheduled for July 13 at MetLife Stadium.