Chelsea have advanced to the final of the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup after a 2-0 victory over Brazilian side Fluminense in the semi-final on Wednesday.
The Blues put on a confident and composed display to secure their place in Sunday’s showpiece event, where they will face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain, who play in the second semi-final on Thursday.
Head coach Enzo Maresca expressed delight at the achievement, describing it as a proud moment for the club.
We are very happy, very proud to play the final on Sunday,” Maresca said after the match. “The reason why is because this is the first edition of the Club World Cup. The best clubs in the world are here. We are proud.
The win was powered by a standout performance from new signing Joao Pedro, who marked his first start for Chelsea with a brace against his former club.
The Brazilian forward opened the scoring with a composed finish in the first half before sealing the result with a second early in the second half.
Maresca praised the 22-year-old for his impact and freshness.
The good thing about Joao, he was on holiday, so he arrived more fresh,” Maresca explained. “We knew already how good Joao is. We know how good he is to drop and link, technically in the small spaces. That’s why we decided to bring him here.
Chelsea now turn their attention to the final on Sunday, as they chase the chance to become the first champions of the newly formatted global tournament and add another major international title to their collection.