In one of the most unexpected results in recent memory, Chelsea delivered a masterclass performance to defeat Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium. Backed by over 80,000 fans in East Rutherford, the Blues scored all three goals in the first half and stunned the tournament favorites with relentless energy, discipline, and precision.
The match opened in surprising fashion. PSG, who had dominated teams like Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and Atlético Madrid in previous rounds, were expected to control the tempo. Instead, it was Chelsea who came out flying. The Blues, listed as +370 underdogs, took the lead just 22 minutes into the FIFA Club World Cup Final thanks to Cole Palmer’s brilliant curling strike.
Match Summary – FIFA Club World Cup Final 2025
- Event – FIFA Club World Cup Final 2025
- Date – July 14, 2025
- Venue – MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Attendance – Over 80,000
- Final Score – Chelsea 3-0 PSG
- Goal Scorers – Cole Palmer (22′, 30′), João Pedro (43′)
- Man of the Match – Cole Palmer
- Referee – Not specified
- Chelsea Manager – Enzo Maresca
- PSG Manager – Luis Enrique
- Red Cards – João Neves (PSG) – hair pull on Marc Cucurella
Palmer leads the charge in first-half blitz
The opening goal came after a misplaced header from Nuno Mendes fell to Chelsea’s Malo Gusto. He quickly squared the ball to Palmer, who sent a sublime shot into the bottom corner from the top of the box. It marked the beginning of a remarkable 21-minute blitz.
Only eight minutes later, Palmer struck again. After a PSG turnover in midfield, Reece James and Levi Colwill launched a rapid counterattack. Palmer faked a pass to João Pedro to pull Vitinha away, then continued his run into the box and coolly slotted home his second into the same corner.
Before PSG could recover, Chelsea struck again. In the 43rd minute, Palmer threaded a beautiful through ball to João Pedro, who delicately chipped it over Donnarumma to give Chelsea a commanding 3-0 lead in the FIFA Club World Cup Final.
Despite being known for their explosive attack, PSG looked flat and out of ideas for most of the match. Their famed front line was neutralized by Chelsea’s compact defensive shape and tireless pressing. Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez had a standout performance, coming off his line with perfect timing and making several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Luis Enrique’s side appeared frustrated in the second half. They struggled to break down Chelsea’s defense and resorted to fouling. João Neves received a red card after pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair in a heated moment. Tensions boiled over at full-time, with Donnarumma confronting Chelsea players and Enrique clashing with João Pedro.
From underdogs to champions
Chelsea’s journey to the FIFA Club World Cup Final was anything but straightforward. They qualified for this expanded edition of the tournament through their 2021 Champions League title—an achievement that felt distant given the squad overhaul since. Many pundits doubted their chances, especially after a loss to Flamengo in the group stage.
However, Chelsea found their rhythm in the knockout rounds. Wins over Benfica, Palmeiras, and Fluminense brought them to the final. Even then, they were seen as outsiders, especially compared to a PSG team that had just demolished Real Madrid 4-0 in the semifinal.
But when it mattered most, Chelsea delivered. With Palmer rediscovering his form and new signings like João Pedro making a massive impact, the Blues outclassed a PSG side that many considered unbeatable. Their performance in the FIFA Club World Cup Final not only secured the club’s first title in this revamped competition but also silenced critics and sent a strong message to the footballing world.
Tactical brilliance from Enzo Maresca
Manager Enzo Maresca deserves immense credit for Chelsea’s tactics in the FIFA Club World Cup Final. His decision to press high and target PSG’s full-backs paid off handsomely. The midfield trio controlled the tempo, while Palmer was given a free role that allowed him to shine. Defensively, the Blues were rock solid, blocking passing lanes and denying PSG any space.
With the FIFA Club World Cup Final victory, Chelsea end their 2024-25 season on a high note. They’ll now turn their attention to preparing for the UEFA Super Cup and the upcoming Premier League campaign. For PSG, the loss is a humbling blow after a season filled with dominant performances.
FAQs
Who won the FIFA Club World Cup Final 2025?
Chelsea won the final, defeating PSG 3-0 at MetLife Stadium.
Who scored in the final?
Cole Palmer scored twice (22′, 30′) and João Pedro added a third in the 43rd minute.
Was this Chelsea’s first FIFA Club World Cup win?
Yes, it was their first victory in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup format.
Where was the FIFA Club World Cup Final played?
The final was held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
