⚽ Joao Pedro's Dream Debut Fires Chelsea into Club World Cup Final
Joao Pedro may have only arrived at Chelsea a week ago, but he's already showing signs of being the Blues' next attacking star after a sensational brace against Fluminense booked their place in the Club World Cup final.
The Brazilian forward, signed from Brighton for £60 million, made his first start in Tuesday's semi-final clash and netted two superb goals in a 2-0 victory at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Pedro, who grew up supporting Fluminense, opened the scoring with a stunning strike from the edge of the box in the 18th minute before latching onto Enzo Fernandez's through-ball to fire in a second after the break via the underside of the crossbar.
"It was a dream. I don't think it could have gone any better," said Pedro post-match.
"I only came here a week ago, and now I'm going to play the final."
💸 Chelsea's £60m Gamble Already Paying Off
With Chelsea set to earn £21.9 million for reaching Sunday’s final – where they’ll face Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain – Joao Pedro’s performance has already returned over a third of his transfer fee.
The 23-year-old, who scored 30 goals in 70 games for Brighton, is one of 19 forwards signed under Chelsea’s £600m attacking overhaul since 2022. But he may just have leapfrogged the competition with this electric display.
Pedro had:
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2 goals from 3 shots
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4 aerial duels and 9 total duels
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A central role in Chelsea's attack before being subbed off for Nicolas Jackson at the hour mark
🔍 Tactical Edge: Maresca’s New Attacking Shape
With Chelsea bolstering their attack with Jamie Gittens, Liam Delap, and teenage sensation Estevao Willian, Pedro's ability to slot into the number nine and ten roles gives Enzo Maresca welcome flexibility.
“It’s not just the goals,” said Gareth Bale. “It’s the link-up play, it’s the vision. He’s on the right trajectory.”
England striker Callum Wilson added:
“What a signing he could turn out to be.”
🏆 What’s Next?
Chelsea now head into Sunday’s Club World Cup final hoping to lift their first trophy under Maresca. Whether Pedro starts again or comes off the bench, his impact has already made a statement.
