Chelsea reach FIFA Club World final after defeating Fluminense
Chelsea reached the FIFA Club World Cup final by defeating Fluminense 2-0 in the first semi-final on Tuesday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Joao Pedro, making his first start, scored both goals against his childhood club.
Pedro opened the scoring within 18 minutes, capitalizing on a mistake by the opponents. He received the ball outside the box and curled a stunning shot to give his team the lead. Having begun his professional career at this childhood club, Pedro chose not to celebrate after scoring against what was once like his ‘home.’
Fluminense had a great chance to equalize in the 26th minute, but Mark Cucurella blocked Hercules’ shot from just outside the six-yard box. Eight minutes later, Chelsea faced another scare when the referee initially awarded a penalty for a handball by defender Trevor Chalobah inside the box, but the decision was overturned after a VAR review.
In the 56th minute, Pedro expertly scored his second goal. He received a through ball from Enzo Fernandez, entered the box, and fired a powerful shot that hit under the crossbar and went into the net. Pedro celebrated again by raising both hands.
In the closing minutes, Chelsea concentrated on solid defense. Fluminense pushed forward in search of opportunities but failed to produce any significant chances.
The final is scheduled for next Sunday, where Chelsea will face either Real Madrid or PSG, who will battle it out in the semi-final on Wednesday.
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