As Chelsea gear up for their Club World Cup quarter-final against Palmeiras in Philadelphia this Friday night, the mood in the camp is understandably heavy.
The build-up to the game has been deeply affected by the sudden and tragic death of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota, sending shockwaves through the football world—and hitting especially close to home for Pedro Neto.
Cucurella Shares Heartfelt Words About Neto and Destiny
Speaking at a press conference at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday night, Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella shared a touching moment between him and his teammate Pedro Neto.
The pair had a heartfelt conversation earlier in the day as Neto struggled to process the loss of his Portugal national teammate.
“In the morning, he was clearly sad.
It wasn’t his best moment,” Cucurella told reporters. “But by the afternoon, he seemed a little bit better.
I told him, ‘If you play, you’re going to score. It’s destiny.’”
Cucurella added that if Neto chooses to play, the team is ready to rally behind him and dedicate any goal to Jota as a symbol of love, support, and respect.
No Pressure on Neto to Decide Yet
There’s still no confirmation on whether Neto will play in Friday’s crucial match.
Chelsea have left that decision entirely up to him, respecting the emotional toll this loss has taken.
Cucurella emphasized that the club and coaching staff will support Neto no matter what he decides.
“It’s a long day tomorrow,” Cucurella said.
“The most important thing is that Pedro feels okay. Whether he plays or not, we’ll respect that.
But he’s in great form, and we know he can make a big difference for us if he’s ready.”
Neto’s Impact So Far at the Club World Cup
Despite the grief, it’s hard to ignore how important Pedro Neto has been for Chelsea at this tournament.
The winger has already netted three goals in three games, helping drive Chelsea to the quarter-finals.
His form has been electric, and he’s become a key figure in their push for the title.
If he does step onto the pitch, it’ll be with extra purpose and an entire dressing room behind him.
Chelsea Look to Book a Semi-Final Spot
The stakes are high. A win over Palmeiras would send Chelsea into the semi-finals where they’ll face either Fluminense or Al-Hilal.
But despite the importance of the match, Cucurella reminded everyone that football takes a backseat during moments like these.
“This is a really tough time,” he said. “Our thoughts are with Jota’s family—his wife, his children.
Football feels small when things like this happen. What matters most is love, support, and being there for one another.”
A Game Played With Heavy Hearts
It’s clear that Friday night’s quarter-final will be more than just a battle for a semi-final spot.
For Chelsea, and especially for Pedro Neto, it could be a chance to honour a friend and teammate taken far too soon.
Whatever happens on the pitch, the match will be remembered not just for football—but for the emotion, unity, and tribute to a player who left a lasting legacy.
