Enzo Maresca's side were given a scare, but relied on their main man to secure a semifinal berth
Cole Palmer scored a memorable goal and Chelsea got a fortunate late winner to carry the London club into the semi-finals of the Club World Cup with a 2-1 win over Palmeiras. The English side got on the board first but were given a scare by a moment of magic by Esteavo - before capitalizing on their second half possession to secure a spot in the semis.
Palmer opened the scoring with a classy piece of individual play. The English attacking midfielder rolled his man, found half a yard of space, and slotted home after 16 minutes. But Palmeiras enjoyed their moments, too. Estevao - who will join Chelsea after the tournament - caused problems on the right. He was instrumental in setting up their best chance of the first half, with left-back Vanderlan putting a free header into the arms of Robert Sanchez.
Estevao had his say after 53 minutes, though, and showed in a brief flash why Chelsea are so eager to bring him in. The 18-year-old beat his man before lashing near post from an impossible angle before careening away in celebration. The Blues' winner was a fortunate thing. They worked the ball down the left to Malo Gusto, whose mishit cross deflected into the back of the net.
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And Chelsea made it relatively easy after that. Palmeiras offered little on the break, while Enzo Maresca's side largely controlled play, cruising into the semi finals - albeit with a stroke of luck. Another Brazilian side, Fluminense, are next - and you'd back the Blues to grind out a result there, too.
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