Pedro Neto has endured a challenging period after helping Chelsea reach the semi-finals of the Club World Cup, and manager Enzo Maresca has praised his resilience in the face of adversity.  

Pedro Neto paid tribute to his Portuguese compatriot Diogo Jota and the Liverpool forward's brother Andre Silva after the club tragically passed away earlier this week. Pedro Neto had his brothers' names printed on a Chelsea shirt, which he wore on pitches and held aloft at a memorial service at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.  

The 25-year-old is close to Diogo Jota, having played alongside him at Wolves and for Portugal. Chelsea manager Maresca allowed Neto to decide whether to play against Palmeiras following the shocking news this week.  

Pedro Neto finally chose to start the game, and before being substituted, he still showed his usual diligence and creativity on the field.  

Enzo Maresca said: "We have communicated with Pedro Neto. It is entirely his decision whether to play or not. We give him full respect and space. He has made great efforts to participate in this game. Fighting side by side with his teammates, we sincerely thank him for everything he has done."  

"I just told the players that this win meant a lot to him because we all know the great bond he had with Diogo Jota and how much he worked for this. So, of course, we appreciate his decision in the end."  

Chelsea took the initiative in the first half against Palmeiras and led 1-0. Cole Palmer's goal put the team ahead and there should have been more goals before half-time. Palmeiras improved their performance in the second half and scored an equalizer early in the game through Esteban Willian.  

Finally, Marlo Gustó delivered a pinpoint cross that was initially blocked by a Palmeiras defender’s legs, but ultimately found its way into the team’s own net after a mistake by Weverton.  

Enzo Maresca was asked if he was "lucky" about the fortuitous nature of the second goal, but the Italian coach insisted it was entirely deserved reward for his team's hard work over the 90 minutes.  

Enzo Maresca continued: "I think in the first half we had complete control of the game. We didn't concede, scored that goal and had chances to score more but the other team was better and they scored in the end."  

"Some things changed in the game and the situation changed, but I think in the last 20 to 25 minutes we regained control of the game. I believe we should win with our strength and not rely on luck."  

“Our second goal came from a short corner, which was widely used during the Club World Cup. Since participating in this tournament, our corner strategy has been adjusted. This is because we are constantly looking to improve, and in the Premier League, I think we still have room for improvement in attack.”  

"Since the start of the Club World Cup, we have adopted a new formation. Most of the time in the game, we focus on short passes, while also retaining the tactical option of long passes."