The FIFA Club World Cup final features Paris Saint-Germain against Chelsea this Sunday. PSG aims to cap off an outstanding year by adding another international title, having recently secured their first Champions League crown with a dominant 5-0 victory over Inter. Luis Enrique`s side has demonstrated exceptional form throughout the tournament, overcoming strong opponents like Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals and delivering a stunning 4-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the semi-finals. Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, faces the challenge of stopping this formidable PSG team. The Blues` path to the final at MetLife Stadium was arguably less demanding, with wins against Benfica, Palmeiras, and Fluminense in the knockout rounds. Chelsea has also enjoyed success this year, clinching the UEFA Conference League title with a 4-1 triumph over Real Betis. This highly anticipated final comes down to a few critical factors.
Key 1: Can Chelsea Contain the Parisians?
The primary question surrounding the final is whether Chelsea possesses the tactical ability and defensive strength to halt the momentum of this high-flying PSG squad. Paris Saint-Germain is arguably enjoying one of their most successful seasons ever, having already completed a treble and secured their maiden Champions League title. While Chelsea has also had a commendable season under Enzo Maresca, achieving Champions League qualification and winning the Conference League, they appear to be facing a team currently operating at a higher level. The arrival of new signing Joao Pedro, who made an immediate impact, adds attacking threat for Chelsea, but neutralizing PSG`s overall potency remains the central challenge.
Key 2: Luis Enrique`s Transformative Impact
A significant factor in PSG`s success is the impact of coach Luis Enrique. The Spanish manager has fundamentally transformed the team, implementing a dynamic system often featuring interchanging wingers and instilling a crucial winning mentality, particularly needed for international competitions. Despite consistent domestic success in France, PSG had historically struggled to secure European silverware until this groundbreaking year, culminating in their first-ever Champions League triumph. Enrique`s ability to reshape the squad and maintain peak performance, even after the departure of a key player like Kylian Mbappe in the summer of 2024, highlights his tactical genius and leadership.
Key 3: Pursuing Historic Greatness
PSG`s current season is shaping up to be one of the most remarkable in football history. Only two other clubs, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, have previously achieved the feat of winning six major trophies in a single season. With the Club World Cup final this Sunday and the UEFA Super Cup match against Tottenham scheduled for August 13th, PSG stands just two victories away from potentially joining this elite group and completing a historic sextuple. Regardless of whether they secure all six trophies, the 2024-25 campaign is already cemented as an exceptionally successful period for the club, but the outcome of the Chelsea final will significantly influence its place among the all-time great seasons.
