Chelsea delivered a stunning performance to beat PSG 3‑0 in the Club World Cup final, fueled by Cole Palmer’s two goals and an assist as they claimed their second title.
In a dazzling first-half display at MetLife Stadium, Cole Palmer showcased his brilliance by scoring two clinical goals and setting up João Pedro for the third. His precision runs and calm finishing left PSG defenseless. Under Enzo Maresca's tactical guidance, Chelsea executed a high-pressing, possession-denying strategy that overwhelmed the French giants. Palmer’s performance not only earned him Man of the Match but also the tournament’s Golden Ball honor. His influence on the pitch was undeniable, seamlessly linking midfield to attack, and dictating the tempo. João Pedro’s goal, a cheeky chipped strike, capped the first-half rout. PSG, reduced to ten men after João Neves was sent off for a late foul, offered little resistance in the second half. Chelsea celebrated amid intense scuffles and post-match emotions, leaving no doubt—this was their night.
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint‑Germain unfolded at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025. In front of an electric crowd of over 81,000 spectators, Chelsea delivered a stunning performance to clinch their second Club World Cup title with a commanding 3‑0 victory. It marked the first all-European final under FIFA’s newly expanded 32-team format, and no one stood taller than Cole Palmer.
Cole Palmer was nothing short of sensational in the final. His first goal in the 22nd minute came from a calm, inside-the-box finish after Malo Gusto’s blocked effort. He doubled his tally just eight minutes later with a near-identical strike, both clinical and composed. Palmer then showcased his vision by assisting João Pedro’s cheeky chip in the 43rd minute. By half-time, the match was effectively won, and Palmer had already etched his name in the tournament’s storied records. It was a performance that earned him the Man of the Match accolade, the Golden Ball award, and praise as the engine of Chelsea’s dominance.
Enzo Maresca’s tactical savvy was on full display as he orchestrated a high-press system that suffocated PSG. His focus on exploiting PSG’s left side forced turnovers and limited their star attackers. The disciplined structure allowed Chelsea to control the game, deny space, and pounce on opportunities. PSG, who had dominated possession throughout the tournament, were unable to mount meaningful attacks. Late in the second half, PSG’s João Neves was sent off following a scuffle sparked by scrapping defender Marc Cucurella, sealing their fate. Maresca’s tactical discipline proved decisive.
João Pedro, who recently joined Chelsea from Fluminense, sealed the result with his first goal for the club. His chipped finish over Gianluigi Donnarumma was a moment of class and composure, capping off a dominating first-half display. Although Palmer provided the spark, Pedro’s contribution showcased the squad’s depth and quality. Together, their goals and assists painted a picture of a side firing on all cylinders.
Chelsea's celebrations were jubilant and chaotic. Players embraced family and friends on-pitch, while fans and teammates erupted in joy. The presentation ceremony, however, was not without commotion. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, who was booed by fans, was present to hand Reece James the trophy, sparking controversy and amplified reactions. Among these emotional scenes, staff and players from both sides momentarily clashed, but it all underscored the intensity and passion of the night.
With this victory, Chelsea became the first winners of the new-look Club World Cup format. They will wear the “World Champions” badge on their kits until 2029—a first, thanks to the expanded tournament structure. This long-term honor elevates Chelsea’s global prestige and underscores the magnitude of their achievement. The £84 million prize money and history-making status add to a compelling narrative of resurgence under Maresca.
For Chelsea, this triumph completes a renaissance season: UEFA Conference League winners, top-four Premier League finish, and crowned world champions. Promising stars like Palmer and Pedro have cemented their place at the highest level, signaling a bright future. PSG, despite their dominance across Europe, encountered a brutally efficient Chelsea. They must now reassess their tactical rigidity and respond at the domestic and European levels. Coach Luis Enrique faces pressure to rebuild and regain footing after an unexpectedly one-sided defeat.
The 2025 Club World Cup final will be remembered as the night Chelsea stamped their authority on world football. Powered by Palmer’s brilliance, guided by Maresca’s strategy, and emboldened by an unwavering squad, the Blues soared to global acclaim. This landmark victory not only shines as a testament to their talent but also marks the beginning of a bold new era for the club.