Chelsea won their first Club World Cup title with a 2-1 win over Brazilian side Palmeiras after extra time in Abu Dhabi.
Germany international Kai Havertz, who also scored the Champions League-winning goal, converted from the penalty spot in the 117th minute to seal victory for Thomas Tuchel’s side.
Referee Chris Beath was sent to the pitchside monitor after Luan Garcia blocked a shot with his hand. Palmeiras finished the game with 10 men after Luan was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Havertz.
The reigning Champions League holders struggled to create chances in the first half but broke the deadlock in the 55th minute when Romelu Lukaku rose highest to head the ball home in what was a well-worked and well-executed move.
Despite going a goal down, Palmeiras remained resilient and continued to put the west London side under pressure. Their moment came when Chelsea defender Thiago Silva attempted to defend an aerial challenge but was deemed to have handled the ball in the penalty area.
Following a check from the video assistant referee, Beath pointed to the spot. Raphael Veiga drew his side level, sending Edouard Mendy, who was selected ahead of Kepa Arrizabalaga, the wrong way.
Speaking after the game, Havertz admitted he was nervous to take the crucial penalty.
He said: “It’s amazing. After champions of Europe, we are now champions of the world. It sounds better.
“I was nervous [taking the penalty], I have to be honest. It’s a big penalty. It’s just crazy. It was good I kept the nerves. I am very happy.
“I was the third penalty taker but I was the only one left on the pitch.
“My team-mates gave me trust. I dreamed always as a kid of this. This is an amazing feeling for me.”
This is Tuchel’s third major trophy during his Chelsea reign, having won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and now the Club World Cup.
He said: “In the end if you score late you need luck to do it but we were relentless and we did not stop trying.
“We did not give in. We had the lead then lost it but never stopped. It was deserved but also lucky when you score late.
“The penalty does not look nervous [from Kai Havertz] but for sure he was. You can not be nervous in this situation. We trusted the statistics and I’m happy for him.”
When asked about Chelsea winning every trophy available, he added: “I’m a part of it and I’m happy to have the chance. We said before in the dressing room ‘what an opportunity’.
“We all dream to have finals like this. There are no regrets. There are still things to win and it never stops.”
Chelsea, making only their second appearance in the final, become the third English side to be crowned champions of the tournament following Manchester United’s and Liverpool’s success in 2008 and 2019 respectively.
Source: TheAtheletic
