Estevao made a memorable debut for Chelsea fans during their 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in a pre-season friendly. The young Brazilian, who recently
joined from Palmeiras for a reported £29 million (€34 million), was the standout performer on Friday. His first start for the Club World Cup champions saw him shine brightly.
In the 18th minute, Chelsea took the lead when Estevao scored from close range after Cole Palmer's impressive shot hit the crossbar and landed perfectly for him. Mark Flekken kept Leverkusen in the game by making quick saves to deny Liam Delap and Estevao before halftime. The visitors nearly equalised early in the second half through Patrik Schick, but Tosin Adarabioyo brilliantly blocked his attempt.
Estevao came close to scoring again just after the hour mark but missed the target. Flekken then made a low save to stop substitute Pedro Neto's goal-bound shot. Chelsea secured their win in the 90th minute when Joao Pedro scored with a well-placed shot into the bottom-left corner, continuing his promising start at Chelsea.
A good runout for the boys! @VisitMalta pic.twitter.com/L8qL0gLSd1
- Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) August 8, 2025
Meanwhile, at Stade Louis-II, Inter managed to overcome Monaco 2-1 despite Hakan Calhanoglu being sent off nine minutes before halftime. Maghnes Akliouche gave Monaco an early lead with a powerful shot in the second minute. Calhanoglu received his second yellow card for a foul on Vanderson.
Inter captain Lautaro Martinez equalised on the hour mark with a deflected strike after skillfully manoeuvring on the edge of the box. The Serie A giants completed their comeback ten minutes from time when Ange-Yoan Bonny intercepted a poor pass and finished his solo run with precision.
Estevao's performance left Chelsea supporters eager for more. He led in shots (seven), touches in the opponent's box (nine), and attempted dribbles (three). He also created three chances, matching Marc Cucurella. Enzo Maresca's team showed no signs of fatigue from their Club World Cup success, finishing with an expected goals (xG) total of 1.83 from 24 shots compared to Leverkusen's 0.22 from four attempts.
Upcoming Challenges for Chelsea
Chelsea is set to face AC Milan in their final pre-season match before opening their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace on August 17. If Estevao maintains this form, he could make a significant impact in top-flight football.
