Chelsea's Brazilian sensation Estevao Willian has cemented his place among football's elite young talents after achieving a remarkable UEFA Champions League milestone during Chelsea's dominant 3-0 victory over Barcelona at Stamford Bridge.
Historic Night for Chelsea's Young Star
The 18-year-old Brazilian wonderkid scored Chelsea's second goal in their comprehensive demolition of Spanish giants Barcelona, a performance that saw him join an exclusive list featuring global superstars Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
According to football statistics authority Opta Joe, Estevao became only the third teenager in Champions League history to score in each of his first three starts in the competition. The Chelsea youngster follows in the footsteps of Paris Saint-Germain's Kylian Mbappe, who achieved the feat at 18 years and 113 days, and Manchester City's Erling Haaland, who accomplished it at 19 years and 107 days.
Dominant Chelsea Performance Against Barcelona
The match at Stamford Bridge saw Chelsea produce one of their most impressive European performances in recent memory. The Blues completely outclassed Barcelona, with the scoreline potentially being even more emphatic as Enzo Maresca's side had three additional goals disallowed during the match.
The opening goal came in chaotic circumstances when Pedro Neto's shot deflected off Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, sending the Club World Cup winners into halftime with the advantage. The first half also saw Barcelona's Ronald Araujo receive a red card, compounding the Spanish team's troubles.
Estevao stepped up in the second half with a moment of individual brilliance, scoring a goal that recalled his impressive strike for Palmeiras against Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup. English striker Liam Delap came off the bench to complete the scoring, capitalizing on Barcelona's high defensive line to wrap up a memorable victory.
Estevao's Rapid Rise Continues
The Brazilian teenager's scoring streak in the Champions League began with goals against Qarabag and AFC Ajax before his latest strike against Barcelona. Statistics platform Sofascore noted that Estevao is now the first Chelsea player to score in three consecutive Champions League matches since Willian in the 2014/15 season.
Speaking to BBC Sport after the match, an emotional Estevao struggled to find words to describe his feelings. "I don't really have any words to sum up how I'm feeling right now. It really was the perfect night. I'm just grateful to God for everything that has happened to me. Onwards and upwards from here," the youngster said.
Describing his goal against Barcelona, he added: "It all happened very quickly for me, it sort of happened before I knew it. I just found some space, wiggled my way through and then scored that goal. It was such a special moment for me in my career. I hope to score many more."
Manager Praise and Future Prospects
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was full of praise for his young star, emphasizing that the achievement represented a significant moment for the entire club. "It was a huge night for him, but I think it is also a huge night for the whole club and all the fans. It is very nice for everyone," Maresca told Football London.
The victory sets Chelsea up perfectly for their next challenge - a London derby against Arsenal in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge. The Blues will have little time to celebrate their European triumph as they quickly turn their attention to domestic matters.
Estevao's performance also stood in stark contrast to that of Barcelona's much-hyped young star Lamine Yamal, who struggled to make an impact against his compatriot Marc Cucurella. The Brazilian's rising stock continues to climb as he establishes himself as one of world football's most exciting prospects.
