A mammoth clash awaits in the FIFA Club World Cup final as Chelsea take on Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), with not only the trophy up for grabs, but also a potential prize pot exceeding £90 million.
For both clubs, the final represents much more than silverware—it’s a shot at legacy, momentum, and global recognition.
Few had Chelsea pinned as finalists before the tournament began. Yet, under the guidance of new boss Enzo Maresca, the Blues have defied expectations. Winning five of their six Club World Cup matches (L1), Chelsea booked their place in this showdown with a confident 2-0 victory over Fluminense in the semi-final.
READ ALSO: PSG crush Real Madrid 4-0 to reach Club World Cup final
Now appearing in their first final since their 2021 triumph, Chelsea look to be hitting form at just the right time. Having won 13 of their last 15 matches across all competitions (L2), they’ve built a solid base of belief.
Maresca’s side has grown in discipline and attacking threat, making them a worthy challenger to the juggernaut that is PSG.As for Paris Saint-Germain, this final could crown a historic season of dominance.
Already winners of three domestic trophies and the UEFA Champions League, the French champions stand just one game away from completing an unprecedented quintuple.
Their 4-0 demolition of Real Madrid in the semi-final sent shockwaves across the football world and extended their remarkable streak to ten wins in 11 matches (L1). Even more impressively, they’ve kept clean sheets in each of their last seven victories, showcasing defensive solidity that complements their explosive attack.
When it comes to head-to-head meetings, PSG hold a slight upper hand, with three wins compared to Chelsea’s two (D3). In recent encounters, the French side have proved difficult to beat, going unbeaten in the last four clashes (W2, D2).
Chelsea’s attacking struggles against European opposition might be a concern—they’ve scored no more than once in five of their last six such games. However, they’ve also attempted more shots (100) than any other team at the Club World Cup, underlining their intent and persistence in front of goal.
PSG’s ruthlessness, however, is not to be ignored: five of their last seven wins have been by margins of three goals or more, and they’ve led at halftime in six of their last eight fixtures.
João Pedro (Chelsea) – The January arrival made an immediate impact with a brace in the semi-final. Notably, he has now scored in the second half in 16 of his last 19 club scoring appearances, making him a key threat late in games.
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG) – The French winger has been in electric form, scoring in both the quarter-final and semi-final, and already notching goals this season against Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal. His direct play and clinical finishing make him a nightmare for Premier League sides.
Chelsea are sweating over the availability of Moisés Caicedo, who picked up a knock in their semi-final win. The Ecuadorian midfielder’s presence could be crucial in neutralizing PSG’s midfield dominance.
PSG, on the other hand, will be without two key defenders—Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernández, both of whom are suspended for the final. Their absence could open up opportunities for Chelsea’s attackers to exploit.
PSG enter the final as clear favourites, and rightly so. With their impeccable form, star-studded squad, and a rare chance at securing five major trophies in one season, motivation will not be lacking. Their demolition job on Real Madrid served as a brutal reminder of their capability against elite opposition.
Chelsea, though impressive in recent weeks, may find the step up in quality overwhelming, especially if Caicedo is ruled out. While their high shot volume suggests they’ll create chances, PSG’s well-drilled defence and ability to kill off games early could see them control the tie from start to finish.
For Chelsea, this final is a testament to their progress under new leadership. For PSG, it’s the summit of a season defined by excellence. With legacies and fortunes on the line, the stage is set for an epic encounter.
, with not only the trophy up for grabs, but also a potential prize pot exceeding £90 million.){kind=link}