Joao Pedro’s Brace Powers Chelsea Past Fluminense in Club World Cup Semifinal

 Former Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro scored twice to lead Chelsea to a 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at MetLife Stadium, securing their place in the final. 

The 23-year-old, making his full debut for Chelsea after a £55 million transfer from Brighton last week, netted in the 18th and 56th minutes, delivering a performance that earned him the Man of the Match accolade from FIFA officials. The match, attended by thousands of fans, showcased Chelsea’s dominance in a tournament held across the United States.

Pedro’s first goal came from a curling shot after a cross from Pedro Neto, exploiting a defensive lapse by Fluminense’s Thiago Silva, his former teammate at Chelsea. The second was a powerful strike that deflected off the crossbar, sealing the win against a resilient Fluminense side. Chelsea controlled 58% of possession and recorded 12 shots on target, per BBC Sport’s live updates, while Fluminense struggled to penetrate the blues’ defense. 

The Brazilian team, captained by the 40-year-old Silva, mounted a late challenge but couldn’t convert, with a potential penalty appeal overturned after a VAR review. Chelsea will face the winner of the Real Madrid vs. Paris Saint-Germain semifinal in the final on July 13, 2025, also at MetLife Stadium. Pedro’s brace, combined with his emotional post-match apology to Fluminense, his boyhood club, highlighted a poignant moment in the tournament.