Chelsea wonderkid Estevao Willian helped his Palmeiras side book their place in the Round of 16 with a dramatic late comeback at the Club World Cup.
For the first time in the tournament, Estevao played 90 minutes as his side trailed Inter Miami 2-0 with just 10 minutes to go, before two late goals confirmed their spot as Group A winners.
Estevao has starred in the Club World Cup so far, and despite not playing the full game had been named ‘Superior Player of the Match’ on both occasions.
The Brazil international took matters into his own hands and made four chances for his teammates in the game, showing his creative side after having some of the best opportunities himself in earlier games.
Estevao Willian in action during Inter Miami CF v SE Palmeiras: Group A - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Luciano Bisbal/Getty Images
Chelsea wonderkid Estevao Willian shows ‘flashes’ in comeback vs Inter Miami
National media have been harsh on Estevao this summer, with it clear that they have very high expectations after what he has delivered in a Palmeiras shirt so far.
This continued in their draw against Inter Miami, where Ge Globo handed him just a 4.5/10 rating, although did credit him for showing flashes of brilliance.
They said: “He had some flashes of play during the game, but his finishing was very poor. He missed at least three shots from the left side and one from the right side.”
Estevao will be joining Enzo Maresca’s first team squad at the conclusion of the tournament, and has now set up a potential showdown with his future club.
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Chelsea need a result in their final group game against ES Tunis to book their place in the knockout stages, and if they win their Round of 16 game they will set up a potential tie with Palmeiras in a repeat of the 2021 Club World Cup final.
Lionel Messi looks on during Inter Miami CF v SE Palmeiras: Group A - FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images
Estevao stuns Lionel Messi
The late rally left superstar Lionel Messi stunned, helping set up a Round of 16 tie with Botafogo instead of Champions League holders PSG.
The game was hyped up massively before kick-off as a potential changing of the guard moment for exciting players, and both individuals performed well in the crucial final match of Group A.
Estevao Willian vs Lionel Messi 24/6/25 Estevao Willian Lionel Messi
Chances Created 4 1
Shots 2 2
Successful Dribbles 4 5
Duels Won 4 6
Touches 47 77
Their late comeback set up a far easier Round of 16 tie, putting them in a far better situation to make the most of the financial opportunities at this competition.
Chelsea fans will be extremely excited about the prospect of Estevao linking up with Cole Palmer and co, and could have the opportunity to see how he gets on against their own side later in the tournament.