Joao Pedro netted two (2) beautiful goals in his first full debut for Chelsea as the Blues defeated Fluminense 2-0 to progress to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final on Tuesday 8 July, 2025 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Pedro, £60m signing from Brighton and Hove Albion, was making his first start for Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea and showed why they wanted him, with a goal in each half to down the Brazilian side where he kicked off his career and set up a final clash with either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
The Blues persevered a series of scares in holding on to their first-half lead, Marc Cucurella performing well to clear the ball off the line after Hercules had beaten Robert Sanchez with his shot. Trevor Chalobah then saw the referee initially award a penalty against him.
Pedro opened he scoring for Chelsea in the 18th minute and sealed victory in the 56th minute, converting Argentine midfielder, Enzo Fernandez’ assist.
With Liam Delap making an amazing start to his career with the club, and Pedro’s outstanding performance for the English side, it means Chelsea have strengthened.
In his post-Fluminense comments to DAZN, Pedro said: “I think it was a dream first start. I don’t think it could have been better. Two goals, now we have to think about the final. I’m very happy.
“I’m happy to score my first goal, but also I know this tournament is very important for [Fluminense]. I can just say sorry but I have to be professional. I play for Chelsea, they pay me to score goals.
“Now I need to rest and focus on the final. It will be a very important game.
“It is going to be my first title as well, a very important and special game. I only came a week ago and I am going to play the final.”
Photo: Joao Pedro celebrates goal for Chelsea with teammate, Enzo Fernandez
