MetLife Stadium, New Jersey : Joao Pedro stole the spotlight in stunning fashion at MetLife Stadium, netting a brilliant brace to guide Chelsea into the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final with a 2-0 win over Brazilian side Fluminense—the very club where he began his footballing journey.
The 23-year-old forward, a recent arrival at Stamford Bridge and a product of the Fluminense youth academy, delivered two world-class finishes, ending the Brazilian outfit’s title hopes while setting up an all-European final showdown against either Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid.
A Night to Remember
Pedro opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a jaw-dropping effort from just outside the box. After a quick counter led by Pedro Neto, a Fluminense clearance deflected into Pedro’s path. The forward took full advantage, curling an unstoppable shot into the far top corner past goalkeeper Fabio, who had no chance.
Fluminense responded with energy and nearly found the equalizer before halftime. Hércules broke through Chelsea’s backline and beat goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, only for Marc Cucurella to produce a vital goal-line clearance. Moments later, a handball shout involving Trevoh Chalobah led to a tense VAR review, but the referee ruled that the defender’s arm was in a natural position, and no penalty was awarded.
Pedro’s Second Seals the Deal
If the first goal showcased flair, Pedro’s second, just 11 minutes into the second half, was pure power and precision. Drifting in from the left, he skipped past Ignacio, unleashed a thunderous strike, and watched as the ball cannoned off the underside of the crossbar into the net. Fabio could only stand and watch as Chelsea doubled their lead.
Despite his celebration being muted—hands raised in an apologetic gesture toward his former club—Pedro had effectively put the match beyond doubt with his second masterpiece of the night.
Missed Chances But Commanding Display
Chelsea continued to assert control. Nicolas Jackson fired into the side netting when a pass to Cole Palmer looked the better option. Christopher Nkunku also came close, only to see his goal-bound effort cleared en route to the bottom corner.
Nonetheless, Enzo Maresca’s side held firm, closing out the match with composure and dominance. With just 90 minutes standing between them and global glory, Chelsea will return to MetLife on Sunday with their sights set firmly on the FIFA Club World Cup title.
Joao Pedro’s performance—marked by brilliance, poise, and sportsmanship—will undoubtedly go down as one of the tournament’s standout displays. For Chelsea fans, it’s a glimpse of a bright future; for Fluminense, a night of heartbreak delivered by one of their own.
