Estêvão announced himself on the European stage with a dazzling performance that overshadowed even the prodigious Lamine Yamal as Chelsea swept aside Barcelona in a commanding Champions League victory. While Yamal’s quality is unquestionable – his effortless grace, feather-touch control, and explosive power from minimal back-lift – the young Spaniard was second-best on a night that belonged entirely to Chelsea’s Brazilian sensation.
Brought in from Palmeiras for a fee rising to £52m, Estêvão has been steadily growing in influence, scoring crucial goals and showing maturity beyond his years. His latest display offered the clearest sign yet that Chelsea may have unearthed a truly elite talent. Four goals in his last four starts, plus strikes for Brazil during the international break, have positioned him as one of football’s brightest prospects. Many in Brazil are already whispering that he might be the star they once hoped Neymar would become.
His standout moment came early in the second half. Chelsea had already gained full control after the dismissal of Ronald Araújo just before the break, but Estêvão’s breathtaking solo goal ensured the result was beyond doubt. Accelerating at blistering speed, he weaved past Alejandro Balde and Pau Cubarsí with effortless feints before firing a vicious strike high into the net. Stamford Bridge erupted, fully aware they were witnessing the emergence of something special.
Chelsea’s physical dominance was clear throughout, reflecting a broader trend this season in which Premier League sides have outmuscled their European counterparts. Barcelona struggled to cope with Chelsea’s intensity, with Yamal in particular finding himself frustrated by the tenacity of Marc Cucurella. That frustration ultimately proved costly, contributing to the chain of events that led to Araújo’s red card.
Chelsea’s opener had arrived moments earlier through a well-worked set piece, another area where English teams continue to outperform their rivals. Once reduced to 10 men, Barcelona never looked capable of regrouping. Chelsea repeatedly exploited the space behind the high defensive line, eventually adding a third through Liam Delap.
Yamal was withdrawn late on, trudging off with resignation as scattered jeers followed him. Estêvão, meanwhile, left to a standing ovation, recognized as the clear victor in a thrilling personal duel.
Chelsea claimed the points, but it was Estêvão’s brilliance that defined the night—an 18-year-old who looks ready to take his place among the world’s very best.
