Tuchel devotes Chelsea's first Club World Cup trophy to Abramovich
Key takeaways:
- Kai Havertz also netted the victor in the Champions League final.
- Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel devoted his first Club World Cup win to owner Roman Abramovich after an extra-time victory against Brazilian side Palmeiras.
Chelsea makes history after winning their First Club World Cup:
A 117th-minute penalty in Abu Dhabi by Kai Havertz - who also netted their 2021 Champions League victor - means the Blues have now succeeded every achievable title under the ownership of the Russian billionaire.
Romelu Lukaku unlocked the scoring with a header in the second period before Raphael Veiga leveled from the spot.
Palmeiras defender Luan was sent off extra time as the Blues closed win.
"It is for him; there is no mistrust that it is for him," stated Tuchel of Abramovich.
"We met fast on the ground after the final, he said 'congratulations,' and I said 'congratulations, it's for you, it's your club, and it's your input and your devotion that made this feasible, and I'm happy to be part of it."
"So, of course, the title is for him."
Like in their semi-final victory against Al-Hilal, Chelsea conquered possession but struggled to create opportunities for much of the final in the United Arab Emirates.
Their cutting edge looked doubtful to enhance when Mason Mount was forced off through injury, just as he was in their FA Cup draw with Plymouth, while Lukaku continued to cut an isolated figure upfront.
Palmeiras were pleased to make the most of their danger on the counter-attack, with the speed of Rony and Dudu stretching the Blues defense, but there were scarce clear-cut opportunities.
Then nine minutes after the interval, Lukaku made the breakthrough when Callum Hudson-Odoi sent in his first pinpoint cross, and the Belgium striker powered a header above Weverton.