Chelsea secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Palmeiras to reach the Club World Cup semi-finals, with a late deflection sealing the result in Philadelphia. An own goal from Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton, who failed to deal with Malo Gusto’s deflected cross, proved decisive in a match full of twists and tension.
The Premier League side started brightly and took the lead in the 16th minute. Cole Palmer, playing in a central role, picked up a pass on the right, cut inside, and fired a low left-footed shot into the bottom corner from 20 yards. It was a confident strike that highlighted his growing influence.
Chelsea continued to press but were unable to double their lead before halftime, with Christopher Nkunku spurning a good chance. Palmeiras offered little threat in the first half, though teenager Estêvão Willian, who joins Chelsea after the tournament, began to show glimpses of his brilliance.
The second half began with Palmeiras playing with renewed intensity, and their efforts were quickly rewarded. Estêvão took centre stage in the 53rd minute, darting into the box to meet a clever pass from the right. With deft control and quick thinking, he unleashed a fierce strike with his weaker foot from a tight angle, the ball crashing in off the bar past Robert Sánchez. The goal was a powerful demonstration of the young Brazilian’s potential.
Chelsea were forced to regroup. Manager Enzo Maresca made changes, bringing on Joao Pedro recently signed from Brighton and Noni Madueke, hoping to regain control in midfield, which had been weakened by the absence of Moisés Caicedo and Romeo Lavia. Andrey Santos, handed a surprise start, showed promising signs despite the pressure, playing a deeper role and holding his own in a frantic encounter.
Palmeiras remained a threat, but Chelsea began to exploit gaps as the match opened up. In the 83rd minute, luck swung Chelsea’s way. Malo Gusto, venturing forward from right-back, attempted a low cross into the box. The ball took a wicked deflection and deceived Weverton, who failed to react in time as it trickled over the line for a gut-wrenching own goal.
Palmeiras, who also lost to Chelsea in the final three years earlier, were left stunned. Their hopes of winning the competition for the first time were dashed once again, and despite Estêvão being named player of the match, the Brazilian side could take little comfort.
Chelsea now move on to face Fluminense in the semi-final, setting up a clash that will reunite them with former club legend Thiago Silva. With Palmer and Estêvão soon to be teammates, Chelsea’s future looks promising and a place in the final remains within reach.
