Chelsea on Estêvão Before Club World Cup Quarterfinal: “I Hope He Has a Difficult Day”
Chelsea players Marc Cucurella and Reece James commented on their plans to face Palmeiras’ Estêvão, who is set to join the English club soon, in the quarterfinal of the FIFA Club World Cup. The match takes place this Friday (July 4) at 10:00 p.m. (Brasília time) at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
Despite the bond they will soon share as teammates, both Chelsea players made it clear that there will be no favors on the field.
Cucurella Praises, but Warns of Intense Competition
Marc Cucurella praised Estêvão’s maturity and his commitment to Chelsea but joked that he hoped the young forward would have a challenging match against the Blues.
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“Of course, the day after tomorrow I will definitely help him (at Chelsea),” Cucurella said. “But I hope he has a difficult day on the pitch tomorrow.”
Reece James Emphasizes Seriousness
Chelsea captain Reece James echoed a similar sentiment, stating that there would be no room for leniency despite any developing friendship.
“On the pitch tomorrow, there is no friendship — it is us against them,” James declared.
He also highlighted that the match will be one of Estêvão’s final appearances for Palmeiras and recognized the talent the young player is bringing to the club.
Lessons Learned After Flamengo Defeat
Chelsea finished second in Group D after losing to Flamengo 3-1 during the group stage. According to the players, that experience was valuable for preparing to face another Brazilian opponent.
“We’ve learned a lot about how to play against Brazilian teams,” James explained. “They’re tough and we expect a tough match, but we’re ready for war.”
“I’ve never played against a Brazilian team before,” he added. “They are very strong and aggressive. We expect the same thing tomorrow.”
Cucurella also stressed the importance of focus.
“Tomorrow will definitely be a difficult game, and we will try to give everything we have to get through,” he stated.
Path Ahead
The winner of the quarterfinal between Chelsea and Palmeiras will face either Fluminense or Al Hilal in the semifinal. Fluminense will play their quarterfinal this Friday at 4:00 p.m. at Camping World Stadium in Orlando.
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