João Pedro scored Chelsea’s first goal against Fulham in the 2026–27 Premier League opening round.
Chelsea won 3–2 away to Fulham at Craven Cottage on 24 August 2026. João Pedro put Chelsea ahead after only 31 seconds, making his goal the earliest of the team’s three strikes in the derby.
Fulham equalised through Josh King, but Morgan Rogers restored Chelsea’s lead before Cole Palmer made it 3–1. Gonzalo García scored for Fulham in the second half, although Chelsea held on for the victory.
João Pedro is a Brazilian forward who developed at Fluminense before moving to Europe. He later played in England for Watford and Brighton & Hove Albion, where his versatility allowed him to operate as a centre-forward or attacking midfielder. His early Chelsea goal helped Xabi Alonso begin his tenure as the club’s manager with a win.