Soccer
Chelsea progressed into the Club World Cup semi-finals after Agustin Giay’s late own goal secured a 2-1 win over Palmeiras.
Giay turned into his own net in the 83rd minute at Lincoln Financial Field on Friday, as Chelsea teed up a clash with Fluminense.
The Blues went ahead through Cole Palmer’s coolly taken opener in the 16th minute.
Yet teenage sensation Estevao, who will join Chelsea after the tournament, dragged Palmeiras level in stunning fashion.
After engineering space to get the better of Levi Colwill, Estevao lashed a wonderful finish in off the crossbar.
18-71 – At 18 years, 71 days old, @Palmeiras‘ Estêvão is the second-youngest goal scorer at this year’s @FIFACWC (FC Porto’s Rodrigo Mora – 18 years, 49 days vs. Al Ahly). Introduction. pic.twitter.com/CBXRnw6pQJ
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 5, 2025
Joao Pedro came on for his Chelsea debut, but it was defender Malo Gusto who turned the tide when his cross deflected in off the unfortunate Giay.
Chelsea’s reunion with their former defender Thiago Silva and his Fluminense team-mates will take place at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.
Data Debrief: Palmer shines as Estevao shows his stuff
Palmer netted his first goal of the Club World Cup, becoming the 10th English player to score at this edition of the tournament. Six of those have been Chelsea players.
The playmaker had a joint team-high four attempts, while also creating two chances as Chelsea accumulated 1.14 expected goals in a tightly contested match.
Palmeiras only mustered 0.21 xG, but Estevao showed his star quality with his immense finish, and Enzo Maresca will no doubt have been licking his lips at the prospect of coaching the Brazilian.
Aged 18 years and 71 days, Estevao is the second-youngest goalscorer at this year’s Club World Cup, behind only Porto’s Rodrigo Mora (18 years, 49 days v Al Ahly).
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