Estêvão Willian scores farewell goal for Palmeiras against his new club Chelsea

Chelsea advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals after defeating Palmeiras 2-1 in Philadelphia.

Estêvão Willian — the 18-year-old prodigy soon joining Chelsea — delivered an impressive performance by scoring the equalizer after Cole Palmer had given Chelsea the lead in the first half. However, Weverton’s own goal in the 83rd minute secured victory for the English side.

Palmeiras coach Abel Ferreira shared a special message with his Chelsea counterpart Enzo Maresca regarding the handling of Estêvão, who was purchased for £33.8 million.

“I spoke with Maresca — you bought an amazing player, but more than this, you bought an amazing person,” said Ferreira.

“He is a kid that is 18 years old so Chelsea need to take care of him. They need to embrace him because in the beginning, for sure, he will make mistakes,” he added.

Maresca responded positively to his future player’s performance:

“I’m happy because we won and also happy because Estêvão scored. The perfect night,” said the Chelsea coach.

Chelsea will face Fluminense in the semifinal to be held in New Jersey next Tuesday.