UCL: CHELSEA BOOK LAST-16 SPOT AS JOAO PEDRO NETS TWICE AGAINST NAPOLI
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By: Balogun Ibrahim
Joao Pedro struck twice in the second half as Chelsea came from behind to defeat Napoli 3–2 and clinch qualification for the Champions League last 16.
Chelsea had taken an early advantage through Enzo Fernandez’s 18th-minute penalty, but Napoli responded before the interval. Antonio Vergara levelled the scores before Rasmus Hojlund fired the Italian side into a 2–1 half-time lead.
The introduction of Cole Palmer at the break proved decisive, with the midfielder providing assists for both of Joao Pedro’s goals as Chelsea completed an impressive comeback.
The Blues began on the front foot and were rewarded when captain Reece James won a penalty after his free-kick struck the arm of Napoli defender Juan Jesus, allowing Fernandez to slot calmly into the bottom corner.
Napoli responded quickly, with Vergara equalising in spectacular fashion in the 33rd minute. The forward evaded Moises Caicedo, shrugged off Wesley Fofana, and fired past goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to level the scores.
Ten minutes later, Hojlund gave the hosts the lead, connecting first-time with Mathias Olivera’s low cross.
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Chelsea’s comeback began after the break when Cole Palmer, returning from a thigh injury, replaced Pedro Neto. The midfielder immediately made an impact, teeing up Joao Pedro, who powered a shot from the edge of the box into the net in the 61st minute.
Cole Palmer once again proved decisive, setting up Joao Pedro for the winner in the 82nd minute, with the Brazilian calmly slotting the ball beneath goalkeeper Alex Meret.
Napoli had a late opportunity to salvage a point when substitute Romelu Lukaku’s strike in stoppage time was comfortably saved by Sanchez.
The result sees Napoli eliminated from Europe, while Chelsea secure direct qualification to the Champions League last 16, bypassing the February play-offs.
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