Philadelphia, July 4, 2025 — In a pulsating quarter-final at Lincoln Financial Field, Chelsea edged past Palmeiras 2–1, booking their place in the semi-final against Fluminense in New York.
First-Half Brilliance
Right from the off, Chelsea asserted dominance. They cruised to a 68% possession rate and peppered the Palmeiras goal with nine shots before half-time, comfortably outmatching their Brazilian opponents . The breakthrough came in the 16th minute as Cole Palmer, with his composed left-footed strike, sliced through a trio of defenders following a Trevoh Chalobah assist. Despite missing multiple chances—including a glaring miss from Christopher Nkunku—Chelsea held firm to their lead until the break.
Palmeiras’ Fiery Response
Buoyed by halftime adjustments, Palmeiras roared back into contention early in the second half. At the 53-minute mark, 18‑year‑old Estêvão, en route to a post‑tournament move to Chelsea, unleashed a spectacular goal from a tight angle that ricocheted off the crossbar and nestled into the net. His strike stood out as a likely contender for the goal of the tournament.
Late Own Goal Seals Victory
With the momentum shifting, Chelsea reasserted themselves. In the 83rd minute, Malo Gusto’s cross found defender Agustín Giay and ricocheted into the net off Palmeiras goalkeeper Weverton—granting Chelsea the decisive 2–1 lead. Reflecting on the win, manager Enzo Maresca described the tight contest: “First half we controlled the game much better… but at the end we scored and I think we deserved to win”.
Stars & Storylines
Cole Palmer continued his impressive tournament run with a composed opener and strong link-up play.
Teenage winger Estêvão arguably stole the night with his dazzling equaliser and upcoming transfer adds depth to Chelsea’s future plans.
Manager Maresca rotated several key players, giving Andrey Santos his first start and crediting the emerging talents for stepping up.
Chelsea now face a Brazilian derby in their next fixture, taking on Fluminense at New York’s MetLife Stadium this coming Tuesday in a semi-final showdown . Victory would bring them within touching distance of a major final.
–Deeprows Sports
