Thiago Silva didn’t hide his feelings after watching Joao Pedro knock Fluminense out of the Club World Cup with two unstoppable goals.

For the former Chelsea captain, it was bittersweet — pride and pain all in one night, Footballrover reports.

Thiago Silva Praises João Pedro After Club World Cup Exit

After the final whistle, Silva called Pedro “special” and admitted the defeat stung more because it came from a player who once called Fluminense home.

“He’s special. I have a lot of affection for him. He hit two brilliant strikes. Sadly for us, it was one of our own who knocked us out of such a big competition. But I’m happy for him,” Thiago Silva said.

Joao Pedro Makes Thiago Silva Proud Despite Painful Blow

For Silva, the Club World Cup clash proved that Pedro has grown into a big-game player.

The veteran defender’s praise shows just how much respect remains between them — and how football can connect loyalty and rivalry in one night.

Now, Joao Pedro will lead Chelsea into a massive final, hoping to finish the job he started against his old club — and honour the words of Silva.

Pedro once wore Fluminense’s colours before moving to Watford in 2020. After his time at Brighton, he joined Chelsea this year and is already repaying the faith.

Meanwhile, after the game, the Chelsea forward didn’t hide his feelings either, taking to his socials to express his joy of scoring two goals on his first start for the Blues.

The 23-year-old remains grateful for his journey from Fluminense to this stage and fully focused on helping the Blues win the final.

In a classy message full of pride and respect, the Brazilian wrote,

“First start, two goals. A night to remember. Grateful for every moment — and always respectful of where it all began. Now, eyes on the final. Let’s finish strong.”

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Last Updated on July 9, 2025 12:06 pm by Sir Kris