When Estevao Willian was introduced as a second-half substitute during our win over Wolves, fans inside Stamford Bridge were hoping for him to make an impact. The fact that the impact took just 68 seconds surprised many, but not Joao Pedro.
The Brazilian was the gleeful recipient of the teenager’s immediate involvement, latching onto Estevao’s cutback before slamming home and doubling our lead over the Premier League’s bottom side. Sending the fans inside the Bridge wild as we took a big step to all three points.
After a frustrating first half, where our stubborn opponents in Old Gold kept the scoreline goalless, we were ruthless in front of goal after the break.
Malo Gusto – his first goal for the club – nodded us in front from an Alejandro Garnacho cross, before Joao Pedro got in on the act himself. Then, the game was wrapped up as Pedro Neto, again from another Garnacho pass, notched against his former side to seal the points.
With Estevao’s impact assisting Joao Pedro, it felt fitting to speak to the Brazilian about his fellow countryman and reflecting on the win as a whole.
‘I think everyone knows that Estevao is a talent,’ Joao Pedro said of his teenage team-mate. ‘When he came on, everyone saw what he could do and he made a great assist for my goal. It was very quick [from when he came on], which always helps!
‘We’re all very happy for him because he’s adapted quickly into life at Chelsea and we’re really happy to have him with us.’
The forward was delighted to get on the scoresheet himself and was pleased to help the side secure the victory, which saw us climb as high as second before Manchester City and Liverpool met on Sunday.
The summer addition from Brighton praised the patience of the side, following a tough first 45 minutes, and believed us ‘getting bodies into the box’ helped unlock the Wolves defence.
‘Playing against a back five who will sit in, it’s never easy,’ added Joao. ‘You have to get good numbers into the box. We showed that with the first goal. Malo was there and then the game was more open’
‘It’s really important to put numbers in the box when playing against a back five. It’s always difficult but that’s what we needed to do, and it paid off for us with the goals and, of course, the win.
I’m on the pitch to help the team first and foremost but of course, as an attacking playing, it’s a really nice feeling to score.
‘It’s important in my position to help out with goals and assists but the most important thing is getting the three points. I’m happy I could help the team achieve this.’