Chelsea vs Fluminense: João Pedro Set for Big Moment as Club World Cup Final Beckons
Chelsea and Fluminense clash in New Jersey for a spot in the Club World Cup final. João Pedro eyes a standout moment against his former club as Enzo Maresca’s side look to reach the showpiece.
João Pedro faces former club as Chelsea target Club World Cup final
The Club World Cup edges closer to its climax, and Tuesday’s semi-final clash between Chelsea and Fluminense promises to be a defining moment. Both sides arrive at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium with momentum and the ambition to secure a place in the final. For Chelsea, it’s a chance to underline their global credentials. For Fluminense, it’s a shot at history.
Fluminense, unbeaten in their last 11 matches across all competitions, edged past Al-Hilal with a narrow 2-1 win to reach this stage. Chelsea matched that result, seeing off Palmeiras to advance. But all eyes now turn to João Pedro, the man who could tilt the balance.
Used off the bench in the win over Flamengo, the Brazilian forward is expected to start this time, with more than three days of acclimatisation behind him. A full debut against his former club couldn’t be more poetic. It was at Fluminense that João Pedro’s journey began, earning him his move to Watford and, later, a Premier League breakout at Brighton. Now under Enzo Maresca at Chelsea, he looks poised to ignite an attack that’s been gradually finding its rhythm.
Chelsea vs Fluminense: João Pedro Set for Big Moment as Club World Cup Final Beckons
Chelsea’s tactical approach has drawn attention during the tournament. No team has taken more short corners than the Blues,23 in total,highlighting Maresca’s preference for controlled, creative play in the final third. It’s the kind of detail that could prove decisive against a disciplined but less physical Fluminense side.
The midfield battle will also be key. Chelsea’s control-oriented style, often anchored by Conor Gallagher and Moisés Caicedo, will be tested against Fluminense’s high-tempo transitions and flair. But with Cole Palmer in form and João Pedro motivated to impress, Chelsea hold the edge in attacking quality.
Fluminense won’t go quietly. Their ability to manage tight matches and remain unbeaten across a tough domestic run speaks volumes about their resilience. Still, Chelsea’s depth, European experience, and attacking upgrades look set to make the difference.
