Chelsea forward Joao Pedro has expressed mixed emotions after helping his side defeat Fluminense 2-0 in the semi-final of the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday.
Pedro, who netted both goals in the match held in the United States, was instrumental in securing Chelsea’s place in the final under new manager Enzo Maresca. However, the Brazilian, a former Fluminense player, admitted that the victory was bittersweet.
Speaking to FIFA after the match, the 23-year-old said: “I have got mixed feelings. I apologise for the two goals. This is my job. I’m sad to see some of the players I played alongside, some of the staff I know upset.”
Pedro continued: “Seeing their sadness is difficult, because I know this was their dream. I’m sorry but the Fluminense fans know how much I love the club. I hope to return to Fluminense one day. I can’t predict the future, but I hope we see each other again.”
Pedro’s brace sealed the win for the Premier League club, who will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain in Sunday’s final at the MetLife Stadium.
