Joao Pedro struck twice against his former Fluminense club to fire Chelsea to the FIFA Club World Cup finals, and on Tuesday evening he sealed the 2-0 victory in the composed and clinical display at the MetLife stadium.
The 23-year-old Brazilian striker, who completed his 55 million moved from Brighton & Hove Albion six days ago, described his full debut with a few excellent goals that were booked in the Sunday finals instead of Enzo Maresco, where they will face either Real Madrid or Saint-Germain.
Pedro launched his first start instead of the suspended Liam Delap and opened a scoring at the 18th minute with a precise low strike from just inside the area. Shortly after the interval, he doubled the lead and timed his run perfectly to go home for a second after Chelsea carved the defense of Fluminense by rapid passage.
Despite the size of the moment Pedro maintained his celebrations respectful. Both goals were followed by the muted gestures of the apology to Fluminense supporters – a nod to the club, where he began his professional career and grew to meaning.
“They gave me everything,” Pedro said after the match. “They showed me the world. If I’m here, it’s because they believed in me. I’m very grateful, but this is football – I have to be professional. I’m sorry but I have to do my job.”
Chelsea walked past Palmeiras in the quarterfinals, replacing Pedro after only two training sessions. But due to the initial role on Tuesday, he took the opportunity to fully effect and his goals are now going to repay a considerable gear fee that many questioned.
Pedro’s arrival, which comes a month after Chelsea also brought Delap, reflects the urgency of the club in solving their lack of offensive possibilities. But Maresco may have found a finished solution on this evidence.
Chelsea victory provides at least 25 million money winning, and the final will now be held on Sunday at the MetLife stadium. Meanwhile, Fluminense will bow to the most successful Brazil in the competition, but their departure ends with South American interest at this year’s tournament.
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Published:
Saurabh Kumar
Published on:
9 July 2025
