EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ — These were unforgettable moments for Joao Pedro, stories he would share with future generations.
Just two weeks after signing with Premier League giants Chelsea for $81.5 million from Brighton, the Brazilian forward scored twice in his first start for his new club during the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal at MetLife Stadium, near New York City.
His goals came against Brazilian powerhouse Fluminense, where Pedro began his journey in 2011 at age 10, eventually debuting for the first team in 2019. After a year, he moved to Watford and later joined Brighton in 2023.
The stars aligned for the 23-year-old in the 18th minute of the semifinal when a failed clearance by former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva fell at his feet. With his second touch, he curled a perfect shot into the net from 18 yards out, right in front of the Fluminense supporters.
Pedro approached the left goal line with hands raised in an almost apologetic gesture to the Fluminense fans, a common practice for players scoring against their former clubs, as Pedro Neto and Moises Caicedo embraced him.
“I went there and they gave me everything. I am very grateful,” Pedro said post-match, explaining his muted celebration. “I am sorry for what happened to them, but I am a professional.”
Pedro refrained from celebrating again in the 56th minute after receiving a perfect pass from Enzo Fernandez. He cut into the box and fired a shot from above the penalty spot off the crossbar and into the net.
Jogging away from the penalty area, Pedro raised his arms, breaking free from Enzo’s embrace. The Argentinian World Cup winner played a crucial role in that goal.
Pedro became the first Chelsea player to score twice in his debut start since Michy Batshuayi in 2016, finishing his performance before being substituted in the 60th minute.
His celebrations came 30 minutes later as Chelsea secured a 2-0 win over Fluminense, advancing to the Club World Cup Final, their first since winning in 2021.
Chelsea will face the winner of the semifinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, to be held on Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
“This kid is special,” said former Chelsea player turned Fluminense leader Silva about Pedro. “I have a lot of affection for him… I faced him a few times at Chelsea when he was at Watford, and he impressed me. I thought, ‘Man, this kid is special.’”
“I didn’t expect him to be so inspired today; he made some great shots. One of our own knocked us out of a significant competition, but I wish him well.”
For more on Joao Pedro, Chelsea, and the FIFA Club World Cup at MetLife Stadium, visit AMNY.com.
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