Chelsea FC secured a convincing 3-0 victory against Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League, with Estevao Willian emerging as the standout performer. The 18-year-old winger not only scored a stunning goal but also demonstrated his potential to be a key player for Chelsea in the future. This match marked a significant moment for Estevao, showcasing his talent on an international stage.
The pre-match focus was on the young talents of both teams, with Estevao and Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal drawing comparisons. While Yamal boasts an impressive resume, including being a European Championship winner with Spain, Estevao’s performance shifted the narrative in his favor. Following this match, Chelsea fans are beginning to believe that their team is on the path to reclaiming its status among Europe’s elite.
Chelsea’s victory was bolstered by an own goal from Jules Kounde and a red card for Ronald Araujo, which left Barcelona struggling. Estevao capitalized on a quick turnover, receiving a pass from Reece James. He skillfully maneuvered past defenders, cutting inside to unleash a powerful shot into the net, leaving the Barcelona goalkeeper, Joan García, with no chance. This moment of brilliance was a highlight in a match that also saw Chelsea have three goals disallowed.
In an interview post-match, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca drew parallels between Estevao’s goal and a previous goal he scored during the Club World Cup while playing for Palmeiras. Maresca emphasized the importance of allowing young players like Estevao and Yamal to develop without overwhelming pressure. He stated, “Estevao needs to relax. He needs to enjoy… When you start to compare with Messi or Ronaldo, I think it is too much for them.”
Estevao’s remarkable achievement includes becoming only the third player in history to score in his first three Champions League appearances, joining the ranks of Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. He has now scored five goals for Chelsea this season, matching the total of all other Premier League players aged 18 or under combined.
Throughout the match, Chelsea maintained consistent pressure against Barcelona, who struggled to find their rhythm. Barcelona’s Ferran Torres squandered an early opportunity that could have changed the game’s dynamics. The team’s woes were compounded when they became the first side in 14 years to score an own goal and receive a red card in a Champions League game.
As Chelsea continues to evolve under Maresca’s management, the team is shedding its previous label as “Cole Palmer FC,” which suggested a reliance on the England playmaker for creativity. The emergence of players like Estevao indicates a shift towards a more dynamic squad capable of competing at the highest levels.
Looking ahead, the challenge will be to balance Estevao’s involvement as he adapts to the pressures of top-level football. Maresca acknowledged the importance of game strategy in determining player selection, saying, “It depends on the game plan. Estevao, when the game plan is for him, he is going to play.”
The match concluded with Estevao receiving a standing ovation from the Stamford Bridge crowd, a testament to his growing reputation. Meanwhile, Yamal left the pitch visibly disappointed, but both players are expected to have bright futures ahead.
As Chelsea prepares for their next match against Premier League leaders Arsenal, the club’s recent performance against Barcelona has ignited excitement among fans. With players like Estevao showcasing their potential, Chelsea appears to be on the brink of a new era of success.
