Chelsea secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals, thanks to an 83rd-minute deflected strike from Malo Gusto that went down as an own goal.
The Blues will now face Fluminense in the semifinals on Tuesday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 16th minute, showcasing his sharp form with a composed finish off Trevoh Chalobah’s assist. However, the highlight came in the 53rd minute when 18-year-old wonderkid Estevão—set to join Chelsea after turning 18—scored a stunning angled equaliser against his future club.
With the game hanging in the balance, Gusto’s shot, following a short corner routine, ricocheted off both defender Agustin Giay and goalkeeper Weverton before landing in the net, sending Chelsea’s travelling supporters at Lincoln Financial Field into raptures. FIFA credited the goal as an own goal by Weverton.
In the earlier quarterfinal, Fluminense edged out Al Hilal 2–1, making Tuesday’s semifinal an all-Atlantic affair.
Despite the excitement, Chelsea will miss Liam Delap and Levi Colwill in the semifinal, both suspended after collecting their second yellow cards of the tournament.
Chelsea fans will hope Palmer and Gusto can continue their impressive form as the London club chases its first Club World Cup title since 2021.
