Pedro scores twice in his debut, leading Chelsea to victory over Fluminense in Club World Cup semi-final.

In a compelling performance at MetLife Stadium, Chelsea FC secured a place in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 by defeating Brazil’s Fluminense 2-0. The match highlighted the talent of Brazilian forward Joao Pedro, who made an impressive debut for the Blues, scoring both goals against his former club.

Pedro, who spent over a decade at Fluminense before transferring to Watford in 2020, demonstrated his striking prowess early in the 18th minute. He struck a curling shot from the left side of the box, propelling Chelsea into the lead. The 24-year-old, recently acquired from Brighton for approximately .5 million, solidified his team’s advantage shortly after the break with a powerful shot that hit the underside of the crossbar before finding the back of the net.

In a thrilling anticipation for football fans worldwide, Chelsea is set to face the winner of the semifinal match between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, which is scheduled for Wednesday. This matchup promises to be as electrifying as the preceding games and could see Chelsea vying for their second FIFA Club World Cup title, having previously triumphed in 2021.

The encounter took place under the sweltering summer temperatures of New Jersey, as the region prepared for the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Despite the heat indexes soaring to 104 degrees Fahrenheit, an enthusiastic crowd of 70,556 spectators filled the stadium, showcasing the enduring appeal of football in the region. Notably, FIFA adjusted ticket prices significantly, making the event accessible to a broader audience and ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.

The match also had its moments of intense drama. A potential penalty for Fluminense was overturned following a review by the Video Referee Assistant (VAR), a decision that sparked strong emotions from the Brazilian side, although the ruling was deemed fair as Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah’s arm was in a natural position.

Former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva, who now plays for Fluminense, was notably active during the match, repeatedly thwarting attacks from his old teammates and showcasing the depth of talent present on both sides.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s earlier contributions to the Club World Cup set a high standard for European teams, who have dominated the tournament with 12 consecutive championships, underscoring the strength of football in Europe. With their victory, Chelsea stands poised to add another prestigious accolade to their footballing history, potentially reaping financial rewards estimated between .4 million and 3.8 million based on their progression in the tournament.

As the tournament continues, football enthusiasts eagerly await the final, where Chelsea seeks to exhibit their commitment to excellence on an international stage.

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