Chelsea put on a show for the few who attended their opening group stage game of the Club World Cup against LAFC.
Those in attendance saw the Blues defeat the MLS side 2-0, with Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez finding the net either side of half-time.
Liam Delap left a lasting impression in his debut for the club, assisting the Argentine with a pinpoint cross following his introduction in the second half.
Enzo Maresca had tipped Cole Palmer to introduce himself to North American fans after missing out on the pre-season tour of the States last summer.
However, the first game of the Club World Cup saw Neto make the biggest impact on those watching on, with his goal being backed up by a very strong performance.
| Pedro Neto vs LAFC | Total |
| Minutes | 90 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Chances Created | 4 |
| Accurate Passes | 47/51 |
| Successful Dribbles | 5/7 |
Sports Illustrated were particularly impressed by the Portuguese star, describing him as ‘brilliant’ and Chelsea’s player of the game.
They said: “It was a promising Club World Cup debut for Neto, who was at the heart of the most dangerous actions Chelsea created all game.
“The Portugal international enjoyed an up-and-down first season at Stamford Bridge and had bagged just one goal in Chelsea colours since February. However, vs. LAFC, Neto was arguably Chelsea’s best player, opening the scoring late in the first half with a brilliant run in behind, crowned by a quick change of direction that left Ryan Hollingshead on the floor before a cool finish into the near post.
“The Blues looked to free Neto in space on multiple occasions. Quick transitions where he’s able to run and get the ball in space is where Neto is at his best, but it’s something we rarely saw in the Premier League this past season as teams constantly sat in a low block.
“Neto must now build on this performance to lay the groundwork on a successful sophomore campaign with the Blues. With Estêvão Willian’s long-awaited arrival to Stamford Bridge getting ever-closer, Neto must continue to perform if he wants to maintain a starting role come 2025–26.”
Neto’s controversial goal celebration
Neto celebrated his first half goal by seemingly blowing kisses in the direction of an opposition player. Both sets of players clashed at half-time as a result.
When asked after the game, Neto admitted it was a message to his opponent, however the situation had been sorted at the conclusion of the match.
With the Blues now having three points on the board in the group stages, Maresca is expected to rotate his squad for the next two games against Flamengo and ES Tunis.
This could see Neto drop to the bench, however he remains a crucial part of the manager’s starting XI at this stage.
