Cole Palmer scores his first goal in the FIFA Club World Cup

 

Cole Palmer Scores Crucial First Club World Cup Goal in Chelsea's Victory Over Palmeiras

Philadelphia, USA – Cole Palmer netted his inaugural goal in the FIFA Club World Cup on Friday, July 4, 2025, contributing significantly to Chelsea's hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brazilian side Palmeiras in the quarter-finals. The match, held at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, saw Chelsea advance to the semi-finals where they will face fellow Brazilian club Fluminense.

Palmer's moment of brilliance came in the 16th minute. Receiving a pass from Trevoh Chalobah, the 23-year-old attacking midfielder showcased exquisite close control, rolling past a Palmeiras defender before calmly slotting a left-footed shot into the bottom corner of the net. This goal marked a significant personal milestone for Palmer, who has been a pivotal figure for Chelsea throughout the season, including being named Man of the Match in their Europa Conference League final win over Real Betis.

Despite Chelsea's early dominance, controlling an impressive 69% of possession in the first half and creating numerous chances, they couldn't extend their lead before the break. Palmeiras, spurred on by their passionate supporters, mounted a comeback in the second half. The highly-touted 18-year-old Estêvão, who is set to join Chelsea in the summer, equalized for Palmeiras in the 53rd minute with a superb angled shot that soared over Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and off the underside of the crossbar.

The game remained tightly contested, with both teams trading opportunities. The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Malo Gusto's powerful shot from the right took a double deflection off a Palmeiras defender and goalkeeper Weverton before trickling into the net. The goal was ultimately credited as an own goal to Weverton, securing Chelsea's passage to the semi-finals.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca described the win as a "perfect night," acknowledging the tough challenge posed by Palmeiras. The Blues will now travel to East Rutherford, New Jersey, for their semi-final clash against Fluminense, who defeated Al Hilal 2-1 in their quarter-final match. With Chelsea's victory, three of the four semi-finalists in this expanded Club World Cup will be from Europe, alongside one from Brazil.

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