📰 Joao Pedro Set for Chelsea Debut as Club World Cup Heats Up Against Palmeiras
Chelsea’s newest signing Joao Pedro is expected to make his debut in the Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras this Friday, adding firepower to the Blues' attack in a critical knockout clash in Philadelphia.
The 23-year-old Brazilian forward completed a £60 million move from Brighton just days ago and joined Enzo Maresca’s squad in Miami before the team travelled north to prepare for the high-stakes match.
“I’m thrilled to be here at Chelsea and ready to fight for every trophy,” Pedro said after signing an eight-year deal. “I’m looking forward to competing in the Champions League and helping win as many titles as we can.”
⚔️ Palmeiras – Familiar Foes with a Point to Prove
Chelsea have history with Palmeiras, having defeated them in the 2022 Club World Cup final. However, this is a revamped Chelsea squad with no remaining players from that victory. The London side also suffered a 3-1 loss to Flamengo in the group stage but bounced back with a 4-1 extra-time win over Benfica, weather delays and all.
Palmeiras, meanwhile, arrive in Philly with local preparation and momentum but face significant defensive setbacks:
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Captain Gustavo Gomez is suspended.
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Left-back Joaquin Piquerez is also out.
They’ll look to rising star Estevao Willian, who will ironically join Chelsea post-tournament, to lead their charge. The 17-year-old is expected to start on the right flank, aiming to torment his future club.
“This has been a goal since the start of the season,” said Palmeiras defender Bruno Fuchs. “We’ve been dreaming about it—and dreams are free.”
🔥 What to Watch For
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Debut Alert: Joao Pedro’s chemistry with Liam Delap, who recently opened his Chelsea account.
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Reunion Energy: Pedro vs Palmeiras — the former Fluminense player facing Brazilian rivals on U.S. soil.
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Historic Setting: The match falls on U.S. Independence Day and will be played in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
