Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson apologises after red card in 3-1 Club World Cup loss to Flamengo, taking full responsibility for letting the team down
Nicolas Jackson apologises for red card following Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Flamengo in a heated Group D match at the FIFA Club World Cup.
Also read: EPL: After Chelsea Crash 4-2 To Wolves, Pochettino Risks Sack
The forward was sent off in the 68th minute after a reckless challenge on Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas, leaving his side with ten men during a crucial phase of the game.
Taking to Instagram shortly after the match, Jackson issued a heartfelt apology to the club, staff, teammates, and fans. “I want to say sorry.
To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down. Another red card… and honestly, I’m so angry at myself,” he wrote.
“I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation… I take full responsibility. I’ll reflect, I’ll grow, and I’ll come back stronger.”
Jackson’s dismissal came as Chelsea struggled to contain a spirited Flamengo side. The London club had taken the lead early in the match through Pedro Neto, who capitalised on a defensive error by Wesley in the 13th minute.
However, Flamengo fought back with substitute Bruno Henrique playing a key role. He equalised just after the hour mark and set up Danilo for the second moments later. Wallace Yan sealed the victory in the 83rd minute, finishing from close range after a deflection.
Former Chelsea defender and current Flamengo coach Filipe Luis described the win as “a special day” but urged his team to stay focused.
“It is just one win. Now we have to think about the next game and try to go through this group phase,” he said.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca admitted that his team lost momentum after conceding two quick goals. “Unfortunately we conceded two goals in a very short period, a very short moment, and then the red card.
It’s very complicated to come back in the game… Congratulations to them. I think they deserved to win,” he said during the post-match interview.
The loss puts Chelsea under pressure ahead of their final group match against Esperance of Tunisia. With one win and one loss, the Premier League side still has a chance to reach the knockout stages but must secure a result in their final outing.
Also read: Chelsea Records First Win In New EPL Season As Sterling Scores Against Luton Town
Meanwhile, Flamengo’s second consecutive win keeps them at the top of Group D and on course for the round of 16. Their strong form reflects the growing competitiveness of South American teams in this year’s tournament.
