New Signing Scores Twice in 2-0 Victory Over Fluminense*
Joao Pedro made an instant impact in his first appearance for Chelsea, scoring both goals in a commanding 2-0 win over Fluminense to send the Blues into the FIFA Club World Cup final. The Brazilian forward, facing his former club, delivered a performance that will quickly endear him to the Stamford Bridge faithful.
Chelsea struck first in the 18th minute when Thiago Silva’s clearance from a Pedro Neto cross fell perfectly to Joao Pedro, who expertly curled his shot past Fluminense keeper Fabio into the top corner. The Blues nearly doubled their lead moments later, but Malo Gusto’s powerful header was denied by the veteran goalkeeper.
Fluminense threatened to level the score when Hercules broke through, only for Marc Cucurella to make a last-ditch goal-line clearance, sparing Robert Sanchez’s blushes after the Chelsea keeper was left stranded. The Brazilian side thought they had a golden chance to equalize when referee Francois Letexier awarded a penalty after a free-kick struck Trevoh Chalobah’s arm. However, VAR intervened, overturning the decision as Chalobah’s arm was deemed to be in a natural position.
Pedro sealed the victory with a stunning second goal, latching onto Enzo Fernandez’s through ball before smashing his shot off the crossbar and in. Chelsea had further opportunities to extend their lead late on, but the damage was already done.
The Blues now await the winner of Wednesday’s clash between European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, with the final set for Sunday. Pedro’s dream debut has given Chelsea fans plenty to celebrate—and a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come.
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