Cole Palmer Shines as Chelsea Wins FIFA Club World Cup Title
Cole Palmer delivered a standout performance as Chelsea FC triumphed over Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup, held at MetLife Stadium. With two goals and an assist, Palmer played a pivotal role in securing the club’s first-ever global title.
The match began with high expectations, but Chelsea quickly took control. Palmer’s first goal came in the 22nd minute, capitalizing on a well-placed pass from Joao Pedro, finishing with precision into the bottom corner. Just eight minutes later, he doubled the lead, weaving through PSG’s defense before unleashing a left-footed strike that mirrored his first.
Before halftime, Palmer showcased his playmaking ability by setting up Joao Pedro, who elegantly chipped the ball over goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing Chelsea’s tally to three.
PSG, attempting to chase a quadruple of major trophies this season, struggled to find their rhythm and looked a shadow of the team that had convincingly defeated Real Madrid in the semi-finals. Their woes deepened when Joao Neves was sent off in the final minutes for an incident involving Marc Cucurella, effectively ending any hopes of a comeback.
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca praised his team’s performance, stating, “We won the game in the first ten minutes. The effort from all the players has been fantastic.” Palmer, reflecting on the victory, credited the tactical setup that allowed him to flourish: “The gaffer put a great game plan out. I just had to repay him and score some goals.”
With this win, Chelsea not only secured their place in football history but also positioned themselves as serious contenders for the upcoming Premier League and UEFA Champions League seasons. The Blues finished the tournament as the top scorers, netting 17 goals, reaffirming their attacking prowess.
For PSG, defender Marquinhos acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the team’s achievements throughout the season, stating, “What we did this season was something we’d never done before.”
