Joao Pedro Brace Fires Chelsea into Last 16, Napoli Exit

Joao Pedro struck twice as Chelsea secured a 3-2 victory over Napoli to clinch an automatic place in the UEFA Champions League last 16 and eliminate the Italian side, ending their 25-game unbeaten home run in all competitions.

Enzo Fernandez opened the scoring from the penalty spot after Juan Jesus was penalised for handball, but Napoli responded strongly.

Antonio Vergara levelled with a fine solo effort before Rasmus Hojlund swept the hosts ahead just before half-time.

Chelsea steadied after the break and Joao Pedro hauled the visitors level with a stunning long-range strike on the hour.

The forward then completed his brace eight minutes from time with a solo run and composed finish to swing the contest decisively Chelsea’s way.

Napoli pushed late, but Robert Sanchez denied Romelu Lukaku in stoppage time as the Blues held on.

The result sends Chelsea directly into the last 16, while Napoli miss out on the top 24 by a single point and bow out of the competition.

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