Pedro brace sends Chelsea Into Champions League last 16, ends Napoli’s European run

Joao Pedro struck twice in a thrilling second-half comeback as Chelsea booked their place in the UEFA Champions League last 16 with a dramatic 3-2 away win over Napoli on Wednesday night, dumping the Italian side out of the competition.

Chelsea finished the league phase in the top eight thanks to the victory in Naples, overturning a half-time deficit against a Napoli side that needed all three points to stay alive in Europe.

The hosts, despite being ravaged by injuries, went into the break with a 2-1 advantage after goals from Antonio Vergara and Rasmus Hojlund put them firmly in control and on course for a play-off spot. Chelsea, meanwhile, looked set to settle for a knockout-round qualifier before the interval.

Pedro changed the complexion of the contest after the restart, rifling home a superb equaliser in the 61st minute to restore belief in the visitors. With Napoli pushing forward in search of a decisive goal, the Brazilian forward struck again eight minutes from time, coolly finishing from a Cole Palmer assist to silence the home crowd.

The result underlined Chelsea’s growing confidence under new manager Liam Rosenior, who has now recorded five wins in his first six matches in charge. The Blues’ only setback in that run was a narrow English League Cup loss to Premier League leaders Arsenal, and their display in Naples showcased resilience and composure under pressure.

Napoli, missing several key players including long-term absentees Kevin De Bruyne and Andre-Frank Anguissa, bowed out of the Champions League despite a spirited showing. Antonio Conte’s side were applauded off the pitch at full-time, recognition from the fans of a courageous effort that ultimately proved insufficient in a disappointing European campaign.

Chelsea, meanwhile, march confidently into the last 16, buoyed by Pedro’s match-winning heroics and a statement victory on hostile territory.