Chelsea FC have advanced to the semi-finals of the ongoing revamped FIFA Club World Cup with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras—despite teenage star Estêvão Willian scoring a stunning goal against the club he is set to join next season.
Cole Palmer gave the Blues the lead in the 16th minute, calmly finishing after a slick move to continue his fine form. Palmeiras, however, responded early in the second half through 18-year-old Estêvão, whose dazzling strike from a tight angle brought the sides level in the 53rd minute.
The decisive moment came just eight minutes later, when Malo Gusto’s dangerous cross was inadvertently turned into his own net by defender Giay Agustin, handing Chelsea the win.
But much of the spotlight belonged to Estêvão. Nicknamed ‘Messinho’ in Brazil for his flair and technical brilliance, the winger gave Chelsea fans a tantalising preview of what’s to come. The Brazil international, who is set to complete a £52 million move to Stamford Bridge, displayed confidence, vision, and finishing ability that belied his age. His sharp movement inside the box allowed him to exploit space behind Levi Colwill, before crashing a powerful shot off the crossbar and into the net beyond Robert Sánchez—a superb performance that earned him man of the match.
Chelsea Hand Debut to Joao Pedro
Also grabbing attention was Chelsea’s latest acquisition, João Pedro. The £55 million forward, signed from Brighton just 48 hours earlier, made his debut and looked lively throughout. He linked up well with Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto and was unfortunate not to find the net himself.
However, the win came at a cost as both Liam Delap and Levi Colwill received yellow cards, ruling them out of the semi-final due to suspension. Meanwhile, club captain Reece James was forced to withdraw during the warm-up after feeling discomfort, casting fresh doubt on his fitness. Nicolas Jackson, available again after serving a two-match ban, was notably absent from the matchday squad.
What’s Next?
Chelsea will now face another Brazilian opponent—2023 Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense—in the semi-final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday. The tie promises to be a mouth-watering contest, especially with Fluminense captain Thiago Silva reuniting with his former club.
Palmeiras, meanwhile, exit the competition with heads held high and will return to Brazil to resume their domestic campaign—albeit without their departing prodigy, Estêvão, who signed off in style.