Marlo Gusteau attributes Chelsea's progress to the FIFA Club World Cup semi-finals to mental toughness, but he also points out that confidence will become increasingly crucial as the tournament enters its later stages.  

Chelsea continued their strong performance in the United States, beating Palmeiras 2-1 in the quarter-finals. Palmer had a chance to score the first goal, but his shot was blocked by Estevao, who is about to join Chelsea. Later, Marlo Gustó's cross caused an own goal by the opponent's defender, helping the team to win in the final stage.  

Chelsea dominated the first half, but Vidao launched a fierce counterattack in the second half, and the score was not changed until seven minutes left in the game.  

Marlo Gusteau said: "We are very happy. It was always our goal to reach this stage and it means a lot to us. It was another challenging match so we are very happy with the win. Our opponents showed a lot of energy on the field and we had to respond, which we did."  

"I think that mentality has played a key role in this tournament. That's why we are very happy to reach the semi-finals and we showed that in every game."  

Marlo Gustó was pleased with his crucial performance in the match, as his cross was deflected to Palmeiras defender Agustín Guiayi before hitting goalkeeper Weverton and finally deflecting into the net, forcing the opponent to make a fatal mistake and becoming the turning point of the game.  

He continued: "It is important for me to achieve important results. This is what the coach asks of me on the pitch. Therefore, I try my best to help the team. I did that in this game and I am happy that we won in the end."  

“We have a very busy schedule and sometimes we don’t perform well in one game but can improve in the next game. The key is how to deal with these situations, stay focused, try to play to the best of your ability and continue to improve in every game, which is what I have been trying to do.”  

Chelsea faced Flamengo in the group stage of this Club World Cup, and then faced Palmeiras in the quarter-finals. Now, they will face Brazilian side Fluminense for the third time in the semi-finals. Having previously faced Brazilian teams in the United States, Marlo Gusto knew it would be a difficult challenge, but he went into the game with his sights firmly set on reaching the final.  

Marlo Gusteau said: "The quarter-finals are very difficult and Brazilian teams have performed well in this tournament. In the semi-finals we will face another strong team, so we just need to focus on playing and fighting for victory. Our goal is to advance to the final and ultimately win the championship trophy. The most important thing now is to believe in ourselves and play at our best."