Late own goal sends Chelsea past Palmeiras in Club World Cup clash

PHILADELPHIA: Chelsea secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazil’s Palmeiras in the Club World Cup quarter-finals on Friday, with an 83rd-minute own goal from goalkeeper Weverton proving decisive at Lincoln Financial Field.

Cole Palmer gave Chelsea a deserved first-half lead, gliding past defenders before slotting home a composed finish in the 16th minute. Despite dominating the early proceedings and threatening repeatedly through Pedro Neto, Chelsea missed several chances to extend their lead—most notably through Christopher Nkunku, who failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity.

Palmeiras regrouped after the break, and teenage sensation Estevao—who is set to join Chelsea—leveled with a stunning strike from a tight angle in the 53rd minute. His goal, a dazzling individual effort that flew in off the bar, reignited the Brazilian side’s hopes.

But just as the match seemed destined for extra time, a deflected Malo Gusto cross ricocheted off Weverton and into the net, sealing Chelsea’s passage to the semi-finals.

“We deserved to win,” said Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca. “It was a tough game, but the players were very good.”

Chelsea will now face Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense in New York on Tuesday, with a place in the final at stake.