• João Pedro's two goals marked an ideal beginning for the 23-year-old, instantly justifying Enzo Maresca's choice to start him in such a crucial encounter.
  • Chelsea will now face the winner of the Paris Saint-Germain vs Real Madrid match in the final on Sunday, July.

Chelsea secured their place in the FIFA Club World Cup final with a 2–0 win against Fluminense, highlighted by an impressive double from debutant João Pedro at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.

João Pedro refuses to celebrate after scoring against his boyhood club. (PHOTO | COURTESY: X)

The Brazilian striker, who joined from Brighton just days before the tournament, began the scoring in the 18th minute with a bending shot into the upper corner and completed the victory with a powerful kick in the 56th minute.

Chelsea will now face the winner of the Paris Saint-Germain vs Real Madrid match in the final on Sunday, July 13, 2025.

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João Pedro awarded the Man of the Match Trophy. (PHOTO | COURTESY: X)

João Pedro's two goals marked an ideal beginning for the 23-year-old, instantly justifying Enzo Maresca's choice to start him in such a crucial encounter.

Chelsea maintained possession and appeared composed throughout the match, with Fluminense only managing a few intermittent challenges.

Fluminense came close to equalising late in the first half, but a goal-line clearance from Marc Cucurella thwarted their attempt.

They were also denied a penalty after a VAR review overturned the original decision. Despite moments of ingenuity from veteran Marcelo and John Arias, the Brazilian team couldn't find a way past Chelsea's solid defence.

"I'm proud of João — he provided the quality we needed in the final third," Chelsea manager Maresca stated after the game. "We dictated the pace and addressed their threats effectively."

Fluminense head coach Fernando Diniz acknowledged Chelsea's better control while commending his team for reaching the semifinals. "We stayed true to our identity and reached a momentous stage. We'll grow from this experience."

The match attracted over 75,000 spectators in New Jersey, with an enthusiastic blend of English and Brazilian fans contributing to a lively atmosphere.

Thiago Silva, who has returned to Fluminense after several years with Chelsea, was recognised before the start of the match but unfortunately faced a disappointing return.

The Blues now have the opportunity to secure their second Club World Cup title, having last won the trophy in 2022. In contrast, Fluminense will contest the third-place playoff as their remarkable journey comes to an end.

The outcome also guarantees Chelsea over $79 million in tournament prize money, whereas Fluminense exits with more than $60 million—both amounts offering a considerable financial uplift.