In a show-stopping Champions League night at Stamford Bridge, 18-year-old Estêvão Willian stole the spotlight as Chelsea FC thrashed FC Barcelona 3–0 — leaving teen counterpart Lamine Yamal effectively anonymous.
A defining moment
After an early Barca own goal gave Chelsea the lead, Estêvão produced a moment of magic in the 55th minute: gliding past two defenders before unleashing a powerful strike from a tight angle into the roof of the net to make it 2–0. The Brazilian’s goal proved to be the turning point — with a third from Liam Delap sealing a dominant night for the hosts.
For Estêvão, the strike was more than just a goal — it was a statement. He later described the moment as “the most special” of his budding career.
Yamal overshadowed
Much was made of the impending “teenage showdown” between him and Barcelona’s Yamal — two of the brightest young talents in world football. But on the night, the contrast could not have been more striking. While Estêvão dazzled with confidence and invention, Yamal was stifled, effectively shut down by Chelsea’s defence and eventually hauled off late in the game.
One report summed it up bluntly: “It was barely a contest.” For once, the hype around youthful promise didn’t matter — performance did, and Estêvão delivered.
Manager’s take and broader implications
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca praised Estêvão’s contribution beyond the goal: citing his pressing and overall energy as equally valuable. Still, he cautioned against wild comparisons, urging fans and media not to heap pressure by likening the youngster to all-time greats.
The result also sends a powerful message: Chelsea’s faith in youth — exemplified by Estêvão — is paying off. And for now, at least, he has grabbed the spotlight in a duel many had built up as a passing of the next generation’s torch.
