Joao Pedro shines in Chelsea’s win

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – It’s unusual for a player to earn their first start for a team during a critical semifinal match when they were under contract with another club in the earlier stages. Yet, Joao Pedro embraced this curiosity of the new Club World Cup by making a significant impact on Tuesday, scoring both goals to secure a 2-0 victory against Fluminense. This match not only showcased his talent but also highlighted why Chelsea signed him, with manager Enzo Maresca envisioning him as a versatile player capable of contributing significantly to the squad.

Pedro found the net quickly, capitalizing in the 16th minute after a fortunate deflection, delivering a curling shot that found the top corner. His second goal in the 56th minute was even more remarkable; after a dazzling run into the box, he created space to slot the ball home. Pedro’s debut was one to remember, bringing him one step closer to his first title with Chelsea.

As he showed his versatility during his initial outing, Pedro impressed with both his skill and style. His performance included a combination of finesse and speed, making him a player to watch for Chelsea as they build towards their future in European competitions.