Chelsea advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals with a 2–1 victory over Palmeiras at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on 4 July. Cole Palmer opened the scoring for the Premier League side and Malo Gusto’s late effort, deflected off defender Agustín Giay, sealed the result despite a spirited display from the Brazilian champions. The match served as the farewell appearance of 18-year-old forward Estêvão Willian, who levelled the score with a solo strike early in the second half. Visibly emotional after the final whistle, the academy product thanked teammates and supporters, saying his “heart is broken” by the elimination but expressing pride in having represented Palmeiras. Estêvão was sold to Chelsea in June 2024 for a fee of about €61.5 million (roughly R$393 million) on the understanding he would remain in São Paulo until Palmeiras exited the tournament. He is expected in London within weeks and could make his debut at the start of the 2025-26 season. Speaking after the game, Palmer described the teenager as “a top player” and said he told Estêvão the Chelsea squad is eager to welcome him, admitting with a laugh that the Brazilian “didn’t understand a word” of the English message. Chelsea will meet Copa Libertadores holders Fluminense in the semi-final on 8 July.