On a day when Chelsea needed a hero to step into the void left by the absent Cole Palmer, 18-year-old sensation Estevao Willian didn't just meet the challenge—illegally rewriting the history books in the process. With a breathtaking display of technical wizardry and composure, the Brazilian prodigy spearheaded a 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, propelling the Blues into 5th place and signaling a new era under manager Liam Rosenior.
The match was more than just a collection of three points; it was a coronation for a player who, at just 18 years and 276 days old, is rapidly becoming the face of the "New Chelsea".
Historic Milestones And A 33-Year Club Record
The significance of Estevao’s performance is etched in the statistics. By finding the back of the net and later turning provider, the winger became the second-youngest player in Chelsea's history to both score and assist in a single Premier League fixture. In doing so, he shattered a club record that had stood for 33 years, surpassing the milestone set by Neil Shipperley back in 1993.
Beyond club borders, Estevao’s impact has taken on national significance. He now holds the title of the youngest Brazilian player ever to record both a goal and an assist in a Premier League match. This feat further cements his status as the most productive teenager in the English top flight this season, as he currently leads all U-19 players in direct goal contributions with an astounding 8 assists to his name.
Clinical Precision In South London
Chelsea’s dominance at Selhurst Park was established early, with Estevao acting as the primary catalyst. In the 34th minute, the young Brazilian pounced on a defensive lapse from Palace teenager Jaydee Canvot. Seizing an underhit back-pass, Estevao raced from the halfway line, displayed remarkable strength to hold off Tyrick Mitchell, and unleashed a powerful strike that left goalkeeper Dean Henderson with no chance.
The goal was his sixth for Chelsea, a tally that sees him join an elite group of U-18 goalscorers for the club alongside Callum Hudson-Odoi and Marc Guiu. Perhaps more impressively, his six-goal haul means he has already surpassed the Premier League totals of former Chelsea strikers like George Weah and Gonzalo Higuain, who both netted five times for the London club.
The Architect Of Victory
The second half saw Estevao transition from clinical finisher to visionary playmaker. Just five minutes after the restart, he played a delicate, perfectly-weighted ball into the path of Joao Pedro. The fellow Brazilian cut inside his marker before drilling a low shot into the bottom corner, effectively doubling the Blues' advantage.
Estevao’s all-around game was a testament to his maturity. Statistics from the match highlight his constant threat: he recorded 7 touches in the opposition penalty area, took 4 shots, and created a clear-cut chance. His contribution ensured that Chelsea remains unbeaten in every match where he has found the net—a record that now stands at five wins and one draw.