Chelsea edged past Palmeiras 2-1 in a thrilling Palmeiras vs Chelsea clash at the Club World Cup quarter-finals on Friday. A late own goal from Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton sealed the Premier League side’s place in the semi-finals.
The match was played at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, which hosted 65,782 fans despite the Independence Day weekend. Fireworks lit up the sky as both teams delivered an exciting game on the pitch.
Chelsea took the lead in the 16th minute through Cole Palmer. The England international received a clever pass from Trevoh Chalobah, created space with a quick turn, and fired a low shot past Weverton.
Palmeiras equalised early in the second half. Their 18-year-old star Estevao Willian, who is set to join Chelsea after the tournament, scored a brilliant goal. He controlled a pass from Richard Rios, dribbled past Levi Colwill, and hit a shot that bounced in off the bar.
As the Palmeiras vs Chelsea game entered its final minutes, Chelsea pushed for a winner. Their efforts paid off in the 83rd minute when Malo Gusto’s cross deflected off a Palmeiras defender, hit Weverton, and went into the net. It was a lucky break, but enough to take Chelsea through.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca said his team deserved the win, noting their control in both halves. Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira admitted Chelsea had better players but felt the second goal was unlucky.
The Palmeiras vs Chelsea scoreline mirrors the 2022 Club World Cup final, where Chelsea also won 2-1. The Blues will now face Fluminense in the semi-final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday.
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