Chelsea Football Club showcased a commanding performance in the Club World Cup 2025 final against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The contest played in warm 27°C temps ended with Chelsea going ahead and holding onto a commanding 3-0 halftime lead. Manager Enzo Maresca’s squad showed off both collective fortitude and individual artistry, most notably from their academy product and future superstar Cole Palmer.
The first big turning point arrived when Cole Palmer netted Chelsea’s first goal, giving his side a boost early on. Just a few minutes later, João Pedro would get on the end of a Chelsea corner to put them up 2-0. Just before the half ended, Palmer scored again. The team’s synergy and strategic execution was too much for PSG, who were simply unable to keep pace.
First Half Highlights
Right from the start, Chelsea showed their poise and force throughout the game. Cole Palmer opened the scoring, taking advantage of an elaborate build-up that completely flummoxed PSG´s defensive line. His first goal sent a shockwave of excitement throughout the Royals organization and fanbase.
“We controlled the game but we have 45 minutes to go. Nothing is done yet.” – Marc Cucurella
Palmer levelled the score with a sensational strike for his first goal. João Pedro quickly responded with an extraordinary hit that had PSG’s keeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, virtually no time to react. With Chelsea very much in the driver’s seat, the heat was turned up on PSG as they continued to search for an answer and quickly fell behind.
As the match progressed, Chelsea’s confidence grew. Palmer was on the scoresheet again, firmly establishing himself as a dominant influence within the group. His record-breaking performance showcased Maresca’s side to their best attacking capabilities, with talent like Palmer up front on dazzling display.
Key Players and Strategy
Chelsea’s squad included players like Enzo Fernández, João Pedro, and Cole Palmer. Trevoh Chalobah just came back from a loan move to Crystal Palace. Indirectly, he was the most impactful centre-back to date, and his aggressiveness helped shore up Chelsea’s defensive back line. The mix of young talent and veteran presence on the squad turned out to be one of the important keys to their championship run.
It was Delap that started the match as Chelsea’s number 9. He made it hard for himself to hold on to that position as elites like Palmer and João Pedro came on the scene. These tactical decisions highlighted Maresca’s adaptability and tactical acumen that allowed him to get the most out of his team.
“Mine was an important action. I anticipated Doue’s pass. We need to continue with the same intensity.” – Marc Cucurella
The unexpected chemistry among players like Caicedo and Fernández came together to create a deadly dynamic in Chelsea’s midfield. Combined, they kept possession and created chances at will, exposing their opponent’s inability to defend through the midfield, resulting in a first-half rout.
Looking Ahead
With a three goal lead going into halftime, Chelsea had all the momentum in the world to start the second half. They knew the fight was not over by a long shot. One thing was certain: the players were aware that if they ever let up on their focus and effort, they’d lose the game.
World Cup star Enzo Fernández complained about the heat getting to players over the course of the game.
“I had to lie down on the ground because I was really dizzy,” – Enzo Fernández
Chelsea supporters still had cause for hope, keeping their chins up after their team’s stellar display so far. As the second half started, tension crackled through the stadium. Supporters could only hope for more goals to confirm their imminent elimination against PSG.