In a thrilling FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semifinal at MetLife Stadium, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a commanding performance, defeating Real Madrid 3-0 to secure their place in the final against Chelsea.
The match, marked by PSG's relentless attacking prowess and tactical discipline, showcased their ambition to claim a historic quintuple of major titles in a single season.
Match Overview
The clash between the reigning UEFA Champions League winners (PSG, 2025) and the 2024 champions (Real Madrid) was billed as a "final before the final," featuring a star-studded lineup and heightened drama with Kylian Mbappé facing his former club for the first time since his move to Real Madrid.
However, PSG's clinical execution and defensive solidity overwhelmed a lackluster Real Madrid side, who struggled to find answers against Luis Enrique’s well-drilled squad.
The match kicked off at 3:10 PM ET, delayed by 10 minutes due to a traffic accident near the stadium.
Despite humid conditions and a temperature of 93°F (34°C), PSG set the tone early, capitalizing on Real Madrid’s defensive errors to establish a commanding lead within the first 24 minutes.
Key Moments
6th Minute: Fabian Ruiz Opens the Scoring
PSG struck first when a defensive lapse from Real Madrid’s Raúl Asencio allowed Fabian Ruiz to slot home a clinical finish, giving the Parisians a 1-0 lead. The goal set the stage for PSG’s dominance, as they exploited gaps in Real’s backline with ease.9th Minute: Ousmane Dembélé Doubles the Lead
Ousmane Dembélé, a Ballon d’Or frontrunner and former teammate of Mbappé at PSG, made it 2-0 after Antonio Rüdiger’s slip allowed him to finish coolly past Thibaut Courtois. Dembélé’s goal and assist in the opening nine minutes marked the fastest direct goal involvements against Real Madrid in a major competition since the 2002/03 season.24th Minute: Ruiz Nets His Second
PSG’s lightning-fast counterattack culminated in Ruiz’s second goal, a precise strike that left Courtois with no chance. The goal exposed Real Madrid’s disorganized defense, with Asencio and a retreating Federico Valverde unable to cope with PSG’s pace. The scoreline stood at 3-0, a deficit Real Madrid could not overcome.Second Half Struggles for Real Madrid
Despite tactical adjustments from Real Madrid’s coach Xabi Alonso, including attempts to reposition Valverde back into midfield, PSG maintained control. A potential fourth goal by Désiré Doué was disallowed for offside, sparing Real further embarrassment. Real’s attack, led by Mbappé and VinÃcius Jr., failed to create meaningful chances, with Mbappé skying a shot into the stands after a promising one-two with Valverde.
Tactical Insights
PSG’s performance was a masterclass in tactical execution under Luis Enrique.
Their high-pressing game and fluid attacking movements overwhelmed Real Madrid’s defense, which was depleted by suspensions (Dean Huijsen) and injuries (David Alaba, Ferland Mendy).
The absence of Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernández forced PSG to rely on Lucas Beraldo alongside Marquinhos, but the makeshift defense held firm, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Real Madrid, under new manager Xabi Alonso, struggled to adapt to PSG’s intensity.
The decision to start Raúl Asencio in place of the suspended Huijsen proved costly, as the young defender was repeatedly exposed.
Alonso’s reluctance to make halftime substitutions, particularly keeping Gonzalo GarcÃa despite his lackluster performance, drew criticism, as Real failed to regain momentum.
Key Performances
Fabian Ruiz (PSG): The Spanish midfielder was the standout performer, scoring twice and dictating play in midfield alongside Vitinha and João Neves. His composure and precision were pivotal in PSG’s dominance.
Ousmane Dembélé (PSG): Facing his former teammate Mbappé, Dembélé shone with a goal and an assist, proving his importance to PSG’s attack. His pace and directness troubled Real’s defense throughout.
Kylian Mbappé (Real Madrid): Despite high expectations, Mbappé struggled against his former club, failing to convert limited chances. His frustration was evident as PSG’s defense neutralized his threat.
Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid): The Belgian goalkeeper made several impressive saves, including efforts from Dembélé and Nuno Mendes, preventing an even heavier defeat. Without his interventions, the scoreline could have been worse.
Post-Match Reactions
Luis Enrique, PSG’s coach, hailed the performance as a testament to his team’s preparation:
“Playing against Real Madrid is always a special game.
We are delighted to be playing in a game like this because it means we have done a good job up to now.”
Xabi Alonso acknowledged the tactical challenge:
“The tactical battle with Luis Enrique was a big test for us.
We will learn from this and prepare for the next challenge.”
Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger admitted, “PSG are a very, very tough team to play against,” highlighting the gulf in class on the day.
Looking Ahead
PSG advance to face Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup final on July 13, 2025, at MetLife Stadium.
The Parisians, chasing a rare quintuple, will look to maintain their scintillating form against a Chelsea side buoyed by their 2-0 victory over Fluminense.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, must regroup after a humbling defeat, with questions lingering about their defensive frailties and Alonso’s tactical setup.
Match Details
Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Attendance: 70,556 (10-15% below capacity)
Referee: Szymon Marciniak (Poland)
Lineups:
PSG: Donnarumma; Hakimi, Marquinhos, Beraldo, Mendes; Neves, Vitinha, F. Ruiz; Kvaratskhelia, Dembélé, Doué
Real Madrid: Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Rüdiger, F. Garcia; Valverde, Tchouameni, Guler, Bellingham; Mbappé, VinÃcius Jr.
Broadcast: DAZN (free streaming available)
This semifinal clash will be remembered as a statement of intent from PSG, who outclassed a storied Real Madrid side to keep their dream of global glory alive.
