MATSAPHA — Chelsea edged closer to Club World Cup glory with a 2-0 victory over Brazil’s Fluminense on Wednesday, thanks to a double strike from Brazilian forward João Pedro.
The first goal came in the 18th minute after a costly mistake by former Chelsea defender Thiago Silva. A poor clearance fell straight to Pedro, who curled a shot past goalkeeper Fábio to give the Blues an early lead.
Chelsea controlled much of the first half but struggled to increase their advantage. Fluminense threatened late before halftime, with Marc Cucurella clearing a goal-bound effort off the line. A penalty initially awarded to Fluminense was overturned after a VAR review.
After the break, Fluminense pushed for an equaliser, with Everaldo testing Chelsea’s defence. However, Chelsea remained dangerous on the break. João Pedro sealed the win with a precise finish following a through ball from Enzo Fernández, firing a rising shot off the underside of the crossbar.
Christopher Nkunku came close to adding a third, but Chelsea held on for the 2-0 win and a place in the final, where they will face tougher opposition.
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