EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (BN24) — Chelsea surged into a commanding 3-0 lead over Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final on Saturday, with President Donald Trump among the thousands watching the spectacle unfold inside MetLife Stadium.
Cole Palmer was at the heart of Chelsea’s first-half dominance, scoring twice before setting up Joao Pedro for a third just before the break. Palmer’s first goal came in the 17th minute with a precisely struck free kick that threaded a gap in PSG’s defensive wall and left Gianluigi Donnarumma with no chance. The England international added a second with a low shot placed neatly into the bottom corner, capitalizing on space left unguarded by PSG’s usually reliable back line.
Joao Pedro struck in the 44th minute after collecting Palmer’s pass, lifting the ball over Donnarumma to cap a half that left PSG chasing a three-goal deficit. The finish highlighted the struggles of PSG fullbacks Nuno Mendes and Achraf Hakimi, who were repeatedly exposed as Chelsea surged forward.
The match paused for an extended halftime break that included performances from J Balvin and Doja Cat, whose set drew mixed reactions from fans in the searing sun. The 23-minute intermission also sparked frustration as players waited to resume play.
When the second half finally started, PSG attempted to claw their way back, creating chances early on. Fabian Ruiz tested goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia forced a scrambling save, but Chelsea’s defense held firm.
The final, broadcast live on DAZN, carried added spectacle with Trump’s attendance, underscoring the tournament’s global profile and the Premier League’s continued influence on world football. Chelsea, aiming for a third Club World Cup title, looked poised to secure it barring a dramatic PSG comeback.
For Paris Saint-Germain, the evening marked only the third time since 2011 they had conceded three or more goals in the first half of a competitive match. In the two previous cases, they managed to recover draws, but trailing by three in a final, the challenge appeared steeper.
