Chelsea reaches Club World Cup final with Joao Pedro brace

João Pedro made a remarkable debut for Chelsea by scoring two goals in their 2-0 Club World Cup semifinal victory over his boyhood club Fluminense, securing Chelsea's place in the final against either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain. The Brazilian forward, who recently transferred from Brighton for a reported £60 million, showed exceptional skill and professionalism by choosing not to celebrate out of respect for Fluminense, acknowledging their role in his development. Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Pedro's quality and impact, highlighting his ability to break down defensive teams, which has been crucial in a successful season that includes a top-four Premier League finish and a Europa Conference League title. The semifinal was played under intense heat in New Jersey, with Chelsea overcoming both the weather and Fluminense's defensive tactics. Pedro's arrival marks a significant investment for Chelsea, underscoring the financial realities Brazilian clubs face in retaining top talent amid lucrative European offers. Chelsea now aims to claim their first Club World Cup title with a lucrative prize at stake, reflecting a strong resurgence for the club under Maresca's guidance.