Chelsea Secures Club World Cup Final Spot Despite Midfielder Injury

Chelsea secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final with a 2-0 victory over Fluminense, propelled by Joao Pedro's two goals on his full debut for the club. Joao Pedro, a recent £60 million signing from Brighton, chose not to celebrate out of respect for Fluminense, his boyhood club. Chelsea's coach Enzo Maresca praised the team's strong season, highlighting their top-four Premier League finish and Conference League win, while expressing pride in reaching the final of this inaugural Club World Cup edition. However, Chelsea face uncertainty ahead of the final due to a late ankle injury to key midfielder Moises Caicedo, who is hopeful but not guaranteed to play. The Blues will face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain in the final, with Maresca acknowledging the strength of both opponents but remaining focused on the team's game-by-game approach. Despite challenges, Chelsea's recent form, including winning 13 of their last 15 matches, signals a remarkable resurgence under Maresca's leadership.