Chelsea delivered a statement performance on the global stage, defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the final of the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Inspired by a sensational display from Cole Palmer, the Blues clinched their first title under the new format, leaving no doubt about their credentials on the world stage.
Palmer, 23, was the star of the show, scoring twice and providing a sublime assist in a performance that will be remembered by Chelsea fans for years to come. His first goal came in the 22nd minute, a composed low finish past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma after Malo Gusto’s clever run behind Nuno Mendes. Just eight minutes later, Palmer struck again — a near-identical low shot from the edge of the box to double Chelsea’s lead.
Before half-time, Palmer wasn’t done. He sliced through PSG’s defense with a pinpoint pass to new signing Joao Pedro, who calmly lobbed Donnarumma to make it 3-0 — a goal that stunned a side Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca had dubbed “the best in the world” just hours earlier.
PSG tried to respond in the second half. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia tested Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez early on, but it was Sanchez’s reflex save from close range to deny Ousmane Dembele that truly kept the French champions at bay. Substitute Liam Delap also had a strong attempt saved as Chelsea kept pushing for more.
PSG’s early missed chances — particularly from Joao Neves and Desire Doue — proved costly. Their frustration peaked in the 85th minute when Joao Neves was sent off for pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair, a decision confirmed after a swift VAR review.
The match ended in further controversy as PSG manager Luis Enrique appeared to slap Joao Pedro in a tense post-match altercation, requiring unused substitute Presnel Kimpembe to intervene and separate the two.
Among the record-breaking 81,118 fans in attendance were FIFA president Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump, witnessing Chelsea lift the trophy and take home an estimated £90 million in winnings.
This dominant win signals the dawn of a new era for Chelsea under Enzo Maresca — and the world is watching.
