Chelsea have stormed to a commanding 3-0 victory over reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain to claim the FIFA Club World Cup title, with US President Donald Trump making a surprise appearance at the post-match presentation.
The Blues lifted the prestigious trophy at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium, with Mr Trump on hand to award the Chelsea squad their gold medals and the Club World Cup itself. The former president also handed PSG players their runners-up medals after a heated contest in front of a packed 82,500-strong crowd.
Despite entering the final as clear favourites, PSG were left stunned after finding themselves three goals down within 43 minutes. Chelsea’s Cole Palmer was the architect of the French side’s downfall, netting two near-identical strikes in the 22nd and 30th minutes.
The in-form England international later turned provider, slipping a clever through-ball to Joao Pedro, who deftly chipped Gianluigi Donnarumma to make it 3-0 just before the break.
PSG showed renewed intent in the second half, nearly pulling one back when Ousmane Dembele’s close-range effort was expertly saved by Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez, who was later named Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Joao Pedro, whose performance was met with rapturous applause, was substituted in the 67th minute for Liam Delap. However, tensions boiled over at full-time, with players from both sides clashing in a mass altercation.
PSG boss Luis Enrique appeared to grab Pedro by the neck during a fiery exchange involving Donnarumma and several Chelsea players.
Earlier, a star-studded pre-match ceremony caused a delay to kick-off, featuring a live performance from Robbie Williams and a flyover by the US Air Force. Half-time saw a high-energy musical showcase from J Balvin, Doja Cat, Tems, and Coldplay’s Chris Martin, as the pitch was watered under sweltering conditions.
Following the final whistle, Mr Trump returned to the stage to present individual accolades. Palmer was awarded the Golden Ball for Player of the Tournament, PSG’s Désiré Doué received the Silver Ball, and Sanchez was recognised as the competition’s top goalkeeper.
The Club World Cup, however, has not been without controversy. Critics have raised concerns over the tournament’s impact on an already packed football calendar, particularly with clubs like Chelsea and PSG often progressing deep into other competitions.
French superstar Kylian Mbappé voiced his frustration, stating: “We already play 60 games a year. We love football, but there comes a point when it’s too much. Player welfare must come first.”
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