Chelsea FC secured a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace on March 3, 2024, with Brazilian forwards Estevao and Joao Pedro delivering standout performances at Selhurst Park. Estevao opened the scoring in the first half with a precise left-footed strike and later assisted Joao Pedro, who doubled Chelsea’s lead shortly after halftime.
The match saw Chelsea capitalizing on their attacking prowess. Estevao’s early goal set the tone, allowing the team to maintain momentum. Just five minutes into the second half, he provided a crucial assist, showcasing his vision and skill. Joao Pedro’s involvement didn’t stop there; his shot led to a handball by Jaydee Canvot, resulting in a penalty for Chelsea. Enzo Fernandez, stepping up in the absence of Cole Palmer, confidently converted the penalty, sealing the win for the visitors.
In the post-match press conference, Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior expressed his admiration for the young duo. “Estevao is a player with special ability, special talent,” he noted, highlighting the forward’s recent illness yet consistent performance. Rosenior also praised Joao Pedro’s pressing and overall contribution, stating, “I thought it was a great performance from Joao Pedro. So happy for Estevao and the whole team.”
The victory was crucial for Chelsea as they sought to maintain their position in the Premier League. Estevao’s impact in Palmer’s absence was particularly notable, demonstrating his potential to be a key player for the team. Joao Pedro, who has been with the club since 2020, leads Chelsea in Premier League scoring with eight goals and three assists, highlighting his offensive output.
Rosenior emphasized the importance of managing Estevao’s development carefully. “You have to manage his minutes and the games for him to have an impact,” he explained, underscoring the need for a strategic approach to the young star’s playing time. He expressed his desire for Estevao to have an exceptional season and career.
As Chelsea looks ahead, the performances of Estevao and Joao Pedro provide a promising outlook for the team. Their ability to step up in crucial moments could play a significant role in Chelsea’s success as the season progresses.
