By Emeka Blast 
Chelsea Lift 2025 Club World Cup Trophy
Palmer, Chelsea’s star midfielder, scored twice in the first half—his first in the 22nd minute after a precise run by Malo Gusto, and a second in the 30th with a clever dummy and low shot past PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. He then set up a brilliant third goal for summer signing João Pedro, sealing a comprehensive victory. Chelsea’s tactical masterclass, described by Maresca as a “chess match,” saw them dominate early, with their high press and rapid counterattacks exploiting spaces behind PSG’s defense, particularly targeting Nuno Mendes. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez delivered a standout performance, earning the Golden Glove for conceding the fewest goals in the tournament and ensuring a clean sheet despite a late scare.
PSG, favored to win with a 64.4% chance per Opta’s supercomputer, were left shell-shocked. Their usually formidable attack, led by Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, failed to break through Chelsea’s resolute defense. The match ended in controversy as PSG manager Luis Enrique appeared to slap João Pedro in post-match scenes, prompting outrage and a swift exit by the Parisians, who were criticized for poor sportsmanship.
Chelsea’s victory, following their 2021 Club World Cup win, marks them as the first English club to secure the title twice, joining elite company with Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Corinthians. The Blues earned approximately £90 million in prize money, with the tournament’s total pool reaching $1 billion. Palmer was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, while PSG’s Doué took the Best Young Player award, and Real Madrid’s Gonzalo García claimed the Golden Boot.
📝 Moral Lesson:
Tactics, teamwork, and resilience can topple even the mightiest favorites. Chelsea’s belief and execution proved that underdogs can shine when it matters most.
