Chelsea forward Pedro Neto says that Flamengo “wanted it more” after the Blues’ 3-1 loss to to the Brazilian side in the Club World Cup.
Neto, who continued his scoring streak with a second goal in as many games, saw his early efforts undone as Flamengo staged a sharp second-half turnaround.
Bruno Henrique pulled the Brazilians level before Danilo put them ahead, and Chelsea’s collapse was sealed when Nicolas Jackson was sent off during a chaotic six-minute spell.
Wallace Yan added a late third, leaving Chelsea at the foot of Group D and in need of a win over Tunisia’s Esperance on Tuesday to stay in the tournament.
Reflecting on the defeat, Neto pulled no punches.
“In the first half, they had more of the ball but we were more dangerous,” he said. “Second half, we came out with energy, tried to press higher, but they had more desire. That made the difference. After the red card, the game was done.”
Despite the disappointment, Neto made it clear he’s grateful to be part of the competition.
“Would I rather be here than on a beach? 100 percent. We’re playing in a world tournament. A lot of players would love to be in this position. We have to appreciate it.”
Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella echoed Neto’s sentiments, highlighting the unique challenge posed by South American sides in the Club World Cup.
“South American teams come into this tournament with different momentum,” Cucurella said. “It’s not just Flamengo – Boca Juniors only just lost to Bayern, and that was the first time a Brazilian or Argentine team had lost in ten Club World Cup games.”
He also pointed out the logistical and seasonal mismatch between European and South American sides.
“It’s not an excuse, it’s just the reality. The timing, the conditions – they’re different. But if we get through, that’s when we’ll show our true level. If you’re going to lose, better it’s now than in the knockout rounds.”
Chelsea will now need to regroup quickly ahead of their must-win clash with Esperance. One more slip, and their Club World Cup journey could be cut short.
