CHELSEA EDGE PALMEIRAS IN DRAMATIC FASHION
Chelsea booked their place in the semi-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup with a tense 2-1 win over Brazilian giants Palmeiras on Friday night — a match that swung on moments of brilliance, youthful energy, and a cruel late twist. A deflected Malo Gusto cross in the 83rd minute sealed the result, bouncing off Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton's back and into the net for a gut-punch own goal. It was a harsh ending for a Palmeiras side that had clawed their way back into the match through teenage sensation Estevão, who ironically is set to join Chelsea in the coming months. For Mauricio Pochettino's side, the result was another reminder that dominance without precision can be dangerous — and that even in moments of luck, character counts. Chelsea, fielding a strong XI, wasted little time asserting their authority at Lincoln Financial Field. Their pressing game rattled Palmeiras in the early exchanges, and it was Cole Palmer who gave the Londoners a deserved lead in the 16th minute. **Estevão's Moment of Magic** The second half belonged to Palmeiras — and to Estevão, the 17-year-old winger whose talent has already drawn comparisons to Brazilian greats of the past. In the 53rd minute, he received a quick switch of play on the right flank, darted past Marc Cucurella, and with barely an angle to work with, lashed a venomous shot past Djordje Petrovic at the near post. It was a goal of rare class and conviction — the kind of flash that reminds fans why Chelsea fought so hard to secure his signature. Ironically, it was Estevão's brilliance that put his future club on the brink of disaster.  **Cruel Ending, English Relief** Just as Palmeiras looked to force extra time, fate intervened. Malo Gusto whipped in a hopeful cross from the right side in the 83rd minute. Defender Bruno Fuchs stuck out a leg; the ball looped awkwardly, catching Weverton off guard. The Palmeiras keeper tried to recover, but the ball struck his back and trickled into the net. The Brazilian players collapsed in disbelief — a cruel, unearned concession that proved decisive. **A Brazilian Double Awaits** Chelsea's victory sets up a mouthwatering semi-final showdown against Fluminense — the Cinderella story of this year's Club World Cup. The Brazilian side stunned Al-Hilal 2-1 earlier in the day, and will head to New York for Tuesday's clash brimming with belief. It will be Premier League structure and money versus South American spirit and heart. And if Chelsea learned anything from Palmeiras, it's that no Brazilian side in this tournament will go quietly. Palmeiras, meanwhile, leave with heads held high. Their performance, especially from Estevão, was a showcase of what's to come — both for Brazilian football and for Chelsea's future.
