Chelsea delivered a commanding performance to secure a 3–0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the final of the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup, with Cole Palmer stealing the show with two first-half goals.
Palmer, who has emerged as a key figure for the Blues, struck twice within the opening 20 minutes, setting the tone for what became a dominant display. The 22-year-old winger then set up João Pedro just before the break to seal Chelsea’s win in style at MetLife Stadium.
This triumph marks Chelsea’s second Club World Cup crown, following their 2021 success in Abu Dhabi. The revamped tournament, now featuring 32 teams and held every four years, gave Chelsea an opportunity to reaffirm their status on the global stage — and they took it with both hands.
Palmer opened the scoring after just 13 minutes, coolly slotting home from inside the box following a slick team move. He doubled the lead six minutes later with a low, composed finish from a tight angle. João Pedro added a third in the 40th minute, chipping the PSG goalkeeper after a clever through ball from Palmer.
Manager Enzo Maresca, who took charge of Chelsea earlier this summer, praised his squad’s tactical discipline and energy. “The players executed everything perfectly,” he said post-match. “Winning a trophy so early in the season is massive.”
The match wasn’t without controversy. PSG’s João Neves was shown a red card in the second half after tempers flared, and a scuffle broke out near the technical area involving both benches. PSG manager Luis Enrique appeared visibly frustrated and exchanged words with Chelsea players, including a heated moment with João Pedro.
Despite the late tension, Chelsea’s focus remained firm, and they lifted the trophy in front of over 80,000 fans. Former U.S. President Donald Trump, present at the stadium, was seen handing out medals during the post-match ceremony, drawing as much attention as the final itself.
With this win, Chelsea not only leave New Jersey with silverware but also with renewed confidence ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
