Chelsea reached the Club World Cup semi-finals with a disciplined if unspectacular 2-1 win over Palmeiras on Friday. The win brings Enzo Maresca’s men a step closer to achieving their first piece of international silverware under the fresh gaffer.
And goals from Cole Palmer and a late own goal clinched victory after a very even contest, with Palmeiras impressively pulling one back in the second half through wonderkid Estêvão.
Chelsea Club World Cup Clash: Palmer Opens, Palmeiras Fight Back
Chelsea made a flying start, and as a result, their early dominance was rewarded in the 16th minute. Cole Palmer ran onto a Nicolas Jackson’s delicate through-ball in behind the Palmeiras back line, rounding Weverton to give the Blues the lead. It was also a composed finish that typified the self-belief the young midfielder is feeling under Maresca.
Palmeiras didn’t sit back. They increased the pressure after the break, and their efforts paid off in the 53rd minute. Estêvão struck, 17-year-old winger, who has already agreed a switch to Chelsea in the future, finishing brilliantly to restore parity – reminding Blues fans of what’s to come.
Even as Palmeiras built up steam, Chelsea remained composed. Đorđe Petrović showed nerves of steel once again in goal and produced some key saves to keep the scores level at the business end of the match.
Late Drama Sends Chelsea Through
The breakthrough arrived in the 83rd minute, but not off the foot of a Chelsea player. Malo Gusto’s low cross hit Palmeiras defender Agustín Giay and flew over Weverton into the back of the net. It was something of a fluke goal but one that summed up Chelsea’s fierce attacking pressure late in the game.
Chelsea’s domination of the closing minutes ensured there would be no more surprises. That result sends Chelsea through to the semi-finals of the Chelsea Club World Cup, and now they prepare to face Brazilian side Fluminense in what is shaping up to be another tough encounter.
It was also Chelsea’s third clean sheet in five games to illustrate how Maresca has the team playing with a strong tactical base and ability to see out games when needed. A constant ascension from Palmer, smart running from Jackson, and ever increasing chemistry in the midfield, are all indications of a side growing in confidence.
