“My players kept talking about them” “Chelsea lucky to have them, opponents beware of them” – Palmeiras Boss Reacts After Quarter-Final Defeat

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“My players kept talking about them” “Chelsea lucky to have them, opponents beware of them” – Palmeiras Boss Reacts After Quarter-Final Defeat

When Palmeiras exited the Club World Cup at the quarter-final stage with a narrow 2–1 loss to Chelsea on July 5, manager Abel Ferreira didn’t mince words. After a pulsating encounter that saw Palmeiras equalise thanks to teenage talent Estêvão, only for an unfortunate own goal to hand Chelsea victory, Ferreira showered praise on his opponents—as well as their future new recruit.

A game swirling with drama

The match kicked off in Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field before a near-capacity crowd, and instantly told the story of two contrasting sides.

Chelsea struck first in the 16th minute through Cole Palmer, whose composed finish following a slick move set the tone . Palmeiras fought back with courage and flair, and in the 53rd minute, emerging star Estêvão—soon to join Chelsea—blasted in a stunning equaliser from a tight angle

Yet football, always precarious, turned on a whim: a deflected Malo Gusto cross ricocheted off goalkeeper Weverton into the net, handing Chelsea a 2–1 lead they would hold until the final whistle .

Ferreira’s heartfelt reaction

Despite the elimination, Ferreira’s post-match comments were strikingly gracious and revealing. He stated publicly:

“Chelsea are very lucky to have them, my players kept talking about them in the dressing room.”

His words referred not just to Estêvão—who showed his class—but also to the broader Chelsea squad’s depth and talent. Ferreira stressed that his team remained upbeat in their post-match huddle, buzzing about Chelsea’s quality.

He addressed the narrow nature of the defeat, calmly acknowledging the unpredictable element of the own goal but emphasised that Chelsea deserved credit:

“Overall Chelsea was better. They have better players and a better coach,” Ferreira admitted, conceding: “They were lucky with the way they scored the second goal.”

“Lucky to have Cole Palmer and especially Pedro Neto and Estevao is joining them they will definitely be a strong team next season” – He added

The Portuguese coach’s humility stood out: he wasn’t bitter, only respectful—recognising Chelsea’s strength, his own side’s valiant fight, and the shared football artistry on display.