Chelsea Crushes Fluminense 2-0 to Secure Historic Club World Cup Final Berth

Chelsea secured their place as the inaugural finalist of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup following their victory over Fluminense at MetLife Stadium during Tuesday's semifinal clash.

The atmosphere was electric as supporters of both Chelsea and Fluminense filled MetLife Stadium to capacity. Each fanbase anticipated that this match would serve as a preview for Sunday's final at the same venue.

Enzo Maresca gave Joao Pedro, Chelsea's newest acquisition, his debut start, and this choice proved fruitful within the opening 20 minutes. Pedro Neto advanced with possession before the ball reached Pedro at the edge of the penalty area. The Brazilian striker elegantly curved his shot into the far corner to break the deadlock. While Maresca's decision was primarily influenced by Liam Delap's unavailability, this performance could significantly impact both the final and Chelsea's Premier League campaign.

Fluminense came close to leveling the score moments later, but Marc Cucurella rescued Robert Sanchez with a crucial goal-line intervention. Chelsea escaped disaster in the 36th minute when the official initially granted Fluminense a spot-kick for Trevoh Chalobah's alleged handball. However, VAR reversed the decision after determining that Chalobah's arm position was natural.

The opening period concluded with Chelsea maintaining their advantage courtesy of their new striker. Pedro continued his impressive form into the second half. A rapid counterattack saw Enzo Fernández threading Pedro through on goal, who unleashed a powerful strike that struck the crossbar's underside before bouncing over the line. The player again chose not to celebrate, but what an outstanding debut performance from the forward.

Both sides made tactical adjustments in the second period, though Chelsea maintained superior control throughout. With Pedro's brace proving decisive, Maresca now faces another final after previously leading the Blues to UEFA Conference League triumph last season. Their upcoming opponent, whether Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid, will present their most challenging examination in this competition.

Individual player assessments from the match are listed below.

Fluminense Player Ratings vs. Chelsea (3-4-1-2)

*Ratings Provided by FotMob*

Chelsea Player Ratings vs. Fluminense (4-2-3-1)

*Ratings Provided by FotMob*

Player of the Match: João Pedro (Chelsea)