Cole Palmer stole the show as Chelsea stunned PSG in the finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with 3-0 surprising demolition of the UEFA Champions League holders. Softfootball watched as the Blues lay claim to the new of trophy of FIFA’s tournament.
Robert Sanchez did have to react well to keep out Desire Doue at the other end, but the Blues’s early pressure eventually told midway through the first half when Palmer guided a shot into the bottom corner after good work by Malo Gusto.
Palmer produced an almost identical finish after quick feet created room inside the penalty area for him to make it 2-0, and the Blues made it three before half-time when Palmer carried the ball towards the edge of the penalty area before playing in Joao Pedro to chip the onrushing Gianluigi Donnarumma.
After watching this surprising domination of PSG by Maresca’s team, Softfootball took time to rate Chelsea’s players on the night.
Robert Sanchez (10/10):
Easily his best game for the club. Made excellent saves to deny Dembele, Vitinha and Doue while his ability to bait PSG’s press led to him springing attacks with his diagonal passes. Who needs Mike Maignan?!
Malo Gusto (8/10):
He got help, but that shouldn’t take anything away from how he kept Kvaratskhelia quiet. Also proved a useful out-ball in attack, as illustrated by the role he played in setting up the opener for Palmer.
Trevoh Chalobah (8/10):
It’s amazing to think that Chelsea still might get rid of the England defender this summer. He read the game mightily well and ensured Dembele barely had a sniff.
Levi Colwill (8/10):
Equally impressive alongside Chalobah at the heart of the Blues’ defence. His passing out of defence also kicked-off a series of Chelsea attacks.
Marc Cucurella (8/10):
Showcased his excellent defensive instincts throughout. Cut out Doue’s pass for what would have been a certain Hakimi goal at 0-0, and continued to get himself in the way of PSG’s forwards thereafter.
Reece James (7/10):
Helped Gusto out up against Kvaratskhelia while also doing a decent job on getting close to Ruiz in midfield. Looks increasing comfortable in his new role.
Moises Caicedo (9/10):
Returned from injury and was absolutely everywhere, particularly in the first half. Never let Vitinha have any room while shielding the ball expertly when he picked up possession. Capped an outstanding season.
Enzo Fernandez (7/10):
Did some good defensive work in closing down Vitinha and Neves. Didn’t really offer much in possession before being forced off due to injury after an hour.
Cole Palmer (10/10):
What a player! Bounced back from his early miss to expertly net the opening two goals before laying in Pedro for Chelsea’s third. Left Beraldo and Mendes in the dust on a number of occasions while also working hard to get back defensively.
Joao Pedro (9/10):
Looked in the mood from minute one as he pressed relentlessly from the front. Held the ball up well, made a couple of key defensive headers and got the goal his performance deserved with a fine chipped finish over Donnarumma.
Pedro Neto (7/10):
His final ball was sometimes lacking, but he worked so hard to get up and down the left flank. Ensured Hakimi couldn’t have a say on the game with his tracking back.
