Joao Pedro made an instant impact in Chelsea colors, scoring twice in a 2–0 win over Fluminense to send the club into Sunday’s Club World Cup final. The Brazilian forward, signed last week from Brighton, marked his full debut with a standout performance that could reshape Chelsea’s frontline.
The 22-year-old opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a precision strike from the edge of the penalty area after controlling a loose clearance. His second came just after halftime, sprinting onto Enzo Fernandez’s through ball and rifling a shot in off the crossbar from the right side of the box.
“It was a dream,” Pedro told press. “I don’t think it could have gone any better. I only came here a week ago, and now I’m going to play in a final.”
Pedro’s double puts him ahead of fellow Chelsea forwards Liam Delap and Nicolas Jackson in the battle for the starting role under head coach Enzo Maresca. Chelsea has spent £600 million on attacking signings since 2022, with Pedro becoming the 19th forward acquired under the club’s American ownership.
His debut came at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, where Chelsea dominated possession and created more chances. The goals also helped secure a £21.9 million payout for reaching the final, where Chelsea will face either Real Madrid or Paris Saint-Germain.
Pedro was effective in multiple areas of the pitch. He registered 26 touches more than any other Chelsea forward in the tournament seven of which came inside his own half. His mobility across both wings and link-up play deep in midfield added variety to Chelsea’s attack.
“We already knew his quality,” Maresca said post-match. “He dropped deep, linked the play, and gave us something different. That’s why we brought him in.”
In contrast, Delap and Jackson have stayed more central in recent matches. Delap, who started against ES Tunis, recorded just two touches in his own half. Jackson, who featured against LAFC, had only four.
Pedro’s contribution extended beyond his goals. He won nine duels and competed in four aerial battles before being substituted at the hour mark. Only Moises Caicedo and Christopher Nkunku had more overall duels in the match.
“He’s not just scoring,” said Gareth Bale on media. “He’s connecting play, showing vision, and giving the team energy in the final third. This is the next level for him.”
England forward Callum Wilson added, “He wanted to make a mark immediately and he did. What a signing he might turn out to be.”
Chelsea will return to the pitch Sunday, aiming to secure their first Club World Cup title under Maresca’s leadership. With Joao Pedro staking an early claim, the club may have finally found its answer up front.
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