Cole Palmer delivered a performance for the ages as Chelsea stunned Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 to claim the FIFA Club World Cup title. The expanded Club World Cup saw Chelsea crowned as champions after an overwhelming victory over the European champions. Palmer's brilliance was on full display with a brace and an assist, leading the Blues to global glory.
The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, saw Chelsea dominate from the start. The first half was especially devastating for PSG, as Chelsea scored all three goals. Palmer opened the scoring, followed by another Palmer goal, and then he assisted Joao Pedro for the third, leaving PSG reeling. Chelsea's Robert Sanchez also made crucial saves to deny PSG any chance of a comeback.
Chelsea's starting XI featured Robert Sánchez in goal, with Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella in defense. Reece James, Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández, Cole Palmer, Pedro Neto, and João Pedro formed the midfield and attack. PSG's lineup included Gianluigi Donnarumma, Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Lucas Beraldo, Nuno Mendes, Vitinha, João Neves, Fabián Ruiz, Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Palmer's two goals were near identical, both placed precisely into the bottom-left corner. His assist to Joao Pedro showcased his vision and playmaking ability, threading a pass between PSG defenders. Joao Pedro calmly chipped the ball over Donnarumma, further solidifying Chelsea's lead.
The second half saw Chelsea maintain their dominance, denying PSG any opportunity to get back into the game. PSG's frustration culminated in a late red card for João Neves, who was sent off for pulling Marc Cucurella by the hair.
Enzo Maresca made a couple of changes to the team that beat Fluminense. Levi Colwill returned to the defense, replacing Tosin Adarabioyo, and Reece James captained the side, taking Christopher Nkunku's place. The win marks Chelsea's second major trophy in two months, after having won the UEFA Conference League.
The victory was particularly sweet for Chelsea, who overcame the odds to defeat a PSG team that had been virtually unbeatable all season. The win also represents a significant financial windfall for Chelsea, with prize money around $125 million. Cole Palmer was named player of the tournament.
