Chelsea has etched its name into football history with a commanding 3–0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain to claim the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the first held under the new 32-team format in New Jersey’s sweltering heat.
Dominant First Half: Palmer Leads the Charge
The breakthrough came early. Cole Palmer, nicknamed “Ice‑Cole” for his unflappable composure, struck twice in quick succession — a clinical finish in the 22nd minute, followed by a stunning solo effort eight minutes later. The third goal added further gloss, as João Pedro brilliantly rounded Gianluigi Donnarumma to make it 3–0 on the stroke of halftime.
Palmer’s two goals and João Pedro’s deft chipped finish stunned PSG — previously unbeaten except for that day — and effectively sealed the match before the break. The players had barely broken sweat before Chelsea was comfortably in control.
Tactical Masterclass from Maresca
Manager Enzo Maresca deployed an aggressive, high-press system to nullify PSG’s attacking threat, especially exploiting chronic weaknesses down the French side’s left flank. His strategy hinged on intensity, transitioning swiftly from defense to attack — a plan that paid dividends in brutal 85°F (29 °C) conditions.
Post-match, Maresca praised his side’s execution and insisted the Club World Cup carries equal prestige to the Champions League — a view echoed by defender Levi Colwill. Chelsea’s assertion was clear: they are no longer just European champions, but truly global champions.
Champions of the World — and the Future
Chelsea’s victory marks their second Club World Cup, the first under the expanded format — a sign that after finishing fourth in the Premier League and winning the Europa Conference League, they can still top the most prestigious global stage.
Set to earn around $153 million in prize money, the win crowns a season of resilience and ambition. Cole Palmer, named Player of the Tournament, finishes the season with an impressive 18 goals and 14 assists, underlining his emergence as a star.
