In what turned out to be a thrilling quarterfinal in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Chelsea edged past Palmeiras 2-1 in front of a buzzing crowd in Philadelphia, thanks to a moment of brilliance from Cole Palmer and a stroke of luck in the dying minutes. But make no mistake — this wasn’t just Chelsea’s win. It was also Estevão’s arrival on the world stage.
⚽ First Half: Cole Palmer Sets the Tone
From the kickoff, Chelsea looked confident and composed. They dominated possession and pressed Palmeiras high, forcing errors. That pressure paid off in the 16th minute when Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s rising star, weaved past defenders and fired a left-footed rocket into the bottom corner.
Palmer’s goal was not just a display of individual brilliance — it was a statement. He’s matured into the heartbeat of Chelsea’s attacking play and continues to thrive under new manager Enzo Maresca.
🌟 Second Half: Estevão’s Wonder Goal
The second half belonged — at least briefly — to Palmeiras. And more importantly, to Estevão, the 18-year-old sensation already signed by Chelsea for a future transfer.
In the 53rd minute, Estevão picked up the ball on the right wing, dribbled past two defenders, and curled a beautiful shot past Chelsea keeper Djordje Petrović. The goal sent the Brazilian fans wild — and reminded Chelsea supporters of the gem that’s coming to Stamford Bridge.
Even though his team would go on to lose, Estevão was widely considered the best player on the pitch, showing composure, confidence, and creativity well beyond his age.
😲 Late Drama: Chelsea’s Lucky Escape
Just when it seemed the match might head into extra time, fate intervened. In the 83rd minute, Chelsea’s Malo Gusto whipped in a cross from the right. Palmeiras defender Agustín Giay and goalkeeper Weverton both went for the ball — and ended up colliding. The ball ricocheted off Giay and trickled into the net.
An own goal, and an incredibly cruel way for Palmeiras to fall behind.
Chelsea held on to the lead, and the final whistle confirmed their spot in the Club World Cup semifinal.
📊 Match Summary:
| 🏟️ Match Stats | Chelsea | Palmeiras |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 61% | 39% |
| Total Shots | 19 | 7 |
| Shots on Target | 8 | 3 |
| Pass Accuracy | 88% | 79% |
| Man of the Match | Cole Palmer / Estevão | |
| Goalscorers | Palmer (16′), OG (83′) | Estevão (53′) |
🗣️ Post-Match Reactions
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea Manager):
“We dominated the first half and showed grit in the second. These kinds of matches test your resolve, and the boys passed.”
Estevão (Palmeiras):
“Scoring in front of a packed American stadium felt surreal. I gave everything. I can’t wait to wear Chelsea blue next season.”
🧭 What’s Next?
Chelsea now faces Fluminense in the semifinal on July 9th in New Jersey. It will be another all-Brazilian challenge for the Blues — and another test for this evolving squad.
Meanwhile, Palmeiras returns home with pride, knowing their young talent — especially Estevão — stole the spotlight.
✍️ Final Thoughts
The 2025 Club World Cup is already proving how global football has become — with Premier League flair, Brazilian magic, and American crowds loving every second.
This Palmeiras vs Chelsea showdown wasn’t just about goals or tactics. It was about emerging stars, unpredictable drama, and a future that looks bright for both clubs.
If this is the level of competition we can expect in the coming years, fans in the USA better get ready — world-class football has officially arrived on American soil.
📌 Editor’s Note:
Don’t miss the semifinal in New Jersey — Cole Palmer vs Fluminense, Estevão watching from the stands, and Chelsea with everything to prove.