Late Drama Sends Chelsea Into Club World Cup Semi-Finals

Chelsea have booked their place in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals after a dramatic 2–1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The win, secured by a late own goal, highlighted the Blues’ growing resilience under manager Enzo Maresca despite missing key midfielders Moisés Caicedo and Roméo Lavia.

Palmer Sparks Bright Start

Chelsea took control early in the match and were rewarded in the 16th minute. Trevoh Chalobah slid a clever pass into the path of Cole Palmer, who glided through Palmeiras’ backline before finishing coolly with his left foot into the far corner. It was a deserved lead after the Blues dominated the early phases of play.

Palmer’s goal capped a strong first-half showing, though Chelsea could have extended their lead had Christopher Nkunku not wasted a golden chance just before the half-hour mark. The Premier League side controlled possession but lacked ruthlessness in the final third.

Estêvão Levels for Palmeiras

After the break, Palmeiras responded through the 18-year-old Estêvão Willian ironically set to join Chelsea next season. In the 53rd minute, the teenage sensation cut in from the right wing, beat Levi Colwill with ease, and fired an unstoppable strike off the underside of the bar past goalkeeper Robert Sánchez.

The equaliser shifted momentum in Palmeiras’ favour. Estêvão, who was later named Man of the Match, tormented Chelsea’s defense throughout the second half and reminded fans why he’s one of Brazil’s most exciting prospects.

Late Drama Seals Chelsea's Progress

Just as the game looked set for extra time, Malo Gusto provided the breakthrough. In the 83rd minute, his driven cross took a slight deflection off Agustín Giay, caught goalkeeper Weverton off guard, and bounced off his back into the net for an unfortunate own goal.

Chelsea held on in the closing minutes to seal a hard-fought victory and move into the last four of the tournament.

Squad Depth Shines Through

With Caicedo and Lavia both unavailable, 20-year-old Andrey Santos was handed his first Chelsea start in over two years and impressed with his composure in midfield. Maresca’s tactical structure held firm, with Pedro Neto and Palmer stretching the Palmeiras defense throughout the contest.

The manager praised his side after the match:

“It was a tough game, but a deserved win. We showed character and found a way even when momentum shifted.”

What's Next?

Chelsea will now face Brazilian side Fluminense in the semi-final, setting up another clash between European structure and South American flair. After battling through adversity against Palmeiras, the Blues will go into the next round with growing belief that they can go all the way.