Joao Pedro Double Sends Chelsea Into Club World Cup Final

Joao Pedro marked his full Chelsea debut with a sensational brace to secure a 2-0 win over Fluminense and get the Blues into the Club World Cup final.

The £60-million forward from Brighton & Hove Albion struck in each half at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, New York, displaying sharp finishing and composure on Tuesday, 8 July.

His first goal came after 18 minutes – a curled effort into the far corner – before sealing the victory on the break in the second half, blasting in via the crossbar.

Pedro, who began his career at Fluminense, chose not to celebrate either goal.

“I think it was a dream first start,” he said during the post-match interview. “ I play for Chelsea, they pay me to score goals.”

Marc Cucurella made a key clearance to preserve Chelsea’s lead, while a penalty awarded against Trevoh Chalobah was overturned by Video Assistant Referee.

Enzo Maresca’s squad will now face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in the final this Sunday, 13 July.

“Hopefully we can win the tournament,” said the Chelsea boss, reflecting on a season that has spanned five competitions and 13 countries.

Victory could earn Chelsea an additional £29 million and the right to wear the FIFA World Champions badge for four years.

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