“We Have to Work Even Harder”—Pedro Neto Sends Strong Message After Chelsea’s Club World Cup Defeat
Pedro Neto says Chelsea must show more responsibility and desire if they want to start winning big trophies again after their 3-1 loss to Flamengo in the Club World Cup.
Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has challenged his teammates to show greater fight and responsibility in tough moments if they want to win major trophies in the future.
The Blues suffered a frustrating 3-1 defeat against Flamengo in the FIFA Club World Cup, despite Neto giving them an early lead with a composed finish after winning the ball and driving into the box.
Chelsea looked in control for parts of the game, especially early in the second half. But it all unraveled around the hour mark, as Flamengo scored twice in quick succession before adding a third to seal the win.
Speaking after the match, Neto said the team must do more to stay focused and determined when under pressure.
“I think it’s about having the responsibility. It’s not about being naïve, it’s about desire as well,” said Neto. “In the first half, we didn’t start well but you could see in our play – even in moments like picking up a yellow card – we were stronger in the duels.”
Neto felt the team came out stronger after the break but didn’t keep up the intensity when Flamengo started pushing.
“We started well in the second half, better than the first half,” he added. “But then maybe we weren’t so strong when they had the ball. We weren’t as competitive as we were in the first half. That made the difference.”
Rather than blame individuals, the Portugal international stressed that the responsibility lies with the entire team.
“When I speak, it’s always as a team, not as individuals. We have to take the next step if we want to win more important things. And this is what we have to do — we have to work even harder.”
Neto also dismissed any excuses related to external factors like the hot weather or Chelsea’s recent form.
“We are here to win it. If we want to win, we have to accept the conditions and work even harder,” he said.
Chelsea now turn their attention to their final group game against ES Tunis, which they must win to guarantee a place in the knockout stages. With Nicolas Jackson suspended after his red card, more pressure will fall on players like Neto to lead by example.
