Chelsea FC have stunned world football by defeating Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 final at MetLife Stadium in New York, claiming their place as world champions. Under the guidance of head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues executed a tactical masterclass, outplaying a star-studded PSG side that had been dominant throughout the tournament.
🧠 Key Tactical Highlights
🔒 1. Back Five Frustrate PSG’s Attack
Chelsea’s defense was airtight:
- Back five formation to close down wide areas.
- Neto dropped into wing-back role, neutralizing Hakimi and Mendes.
- Reece James and Levi Colwill led the physical backline.
- PSG’s Desire Doue, Dembele, and Kvaratskhelia were all ineffective.
“We tried to be very aggressive and suffocate them early on,” said Maresca.
🧤 2. Caicedo & James Dominate Midfield
Chelsea won the match in the middle third:
- Maresca deployed Reece James in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo.
- Their pressing shut down Vitinha, Fabian Ruiz, and Joao Neves.
- Joao Neves’ frustration led to a red card after pulling Cucurella’s hair.
This physical and mental domination ensured PSG couldn’t build attacking rhythm.
📡 3. Long Balls Over PSG’s Press
Chelsea bypassed PSG’s press with precision:
- Sanchez’s long ball to Gusto set up Palmer’s first goal (22’).
- Colwill’s chipped ball enabled Palmer’s second (30’).
| Minute | Goal Scorer | Assist | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 22’ | Cole Palmer | Malo Gusto | Slotted finish after long-ball break |
| 30’ | Cole Palmer | Levi Colwill | Quick footwork and calm finish |
| 78’ | Marc Cucurella | Enzo Fernandez | Final goal sealed the win |
🏅 Man of the Match: Cole Palmer
- 2 goals in the final
- Crucial movement behind PSG’s high line
- Embodied Chelsea’s youthful dominance on the big stage
🎙️ Post-Match Reactions
- Maresca: “The idea was to go man-to-man. If you leave space to PSG, they’ll kill you.”
- Ronaldo (FIFA Legend): “Chelsea were perfect tactically—this is how modern football should be played.”
📊 Full-Time Summary
| Team | Score | Possession | Shots on Target | Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chelsea FC | 3 | 47% | 6 | 2 Yellows |
| PSG | 0 | 53% | 3 | 1 Red |
🎯 What This Means for Chelsea
Chelsea’s victory caps a remarkable journey and marks a new era under Maresca. With young stars like Palmer, Caicedo, and Colwill, Chelsea have reestablished themselves on the global stage.
🔗 Source
The Maresca Masterclass – FIFA.com
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