Chelsea pulled off a stunning upset in the Club World Cup final, defeating favorites Paris Saint-Germain by cleverly adopting and enhancing their opponents’ signature high-pressing tactics.
Chelsea’s Tactical Masterclass
Leading up to the final, many expected PSG to dominate, but Chelsea flipped the script entirely. The London club started the match with an intensity usually associated with the French champions, employing a relentless high press that gave PSG no room to breathe.
It was a stark contrast to PSG’s usual dominant style. For the first time in the tournament, after their strong performance against Real Madrid, PSG looked visibly unsure and unsettled by Chelsea’s unexpected aggression.
Shutting Down the Opposition
Chelsea capitalized on PSG’s uncertainty. With the pressure off their shoulders, the Blues snapped at their more fancied opponents’ heels, preventing them from settling on the ball. This strategy directly countered PSG’s typical approach of an early high press for a quick goal.
A key to Chelsea’s success was their midfield trio of Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Reece James. They expertly cut off PSG’s supply lines, disrupting their well-oiled machine and initiating Chelsea’s own dangerous attacks.
Lethal Counters and Long Balls
Once PSG’s midfield engine faltered, Chelsea unleashed their potent counter-attacks and long balls. Cole Palmer and new signing Joao Pedro were at the heart of these transitions, proving to be a constant threat.
French fullback Malo Gusto also caused significant problems on the wings. His marauding runs exploited Nuno Mendes’s positioning, creating crucial space for Chelsea’s offensive plays. This aggressive pressing from Chelsea ultimately unraveled PSG’s defense.
Cole Palmer’s Moment to Shine
The first goal, scored in the 22nd minute, showcased Chelsea’s attacking prowess. Gusto’s deep run and blocked shot led to a perfect feed for Palmer, who exquisitely finished with his left foot.
Palmer quickly doubled the lead in the 30th minute with a sensational solo effort. He weaved through a fatigued PSG midfield, executed a majestic feint, and buried another left-footed strike into the net. This performance cemented his reputation after a season that saw him emerge as a key player.
A Promising New Partnership
Initial doubts surrounded Chelsea’s £40 million signing of Cole Palmer from Manchester City. However, Palmer has been a revelation, delivering 27 goals and 15 assists in his breakout season, and finishing the current campaign with 15 goals and 9 assists in the EPL, alongside stellar Cup performances.
The synergy between Palmer and new target man Joao Pedro, a £60 million July signing from Brighton, has been instant and devastating. Their combination for Chelsea’s third goal, with Palmer setting up Pedro for a deft chip over Gianluigi Donnarumma, sealed PSG’s fate and highlighted a partnership already drawing comparisons to Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland.
- Chelsea won the Club World Cup final by mirroring and enhancing PSG’s high-pressing tactics.
- Cole Palmer starred with two goals, showcasing his pivotal role and significant value.
- The new partnership between Palmer and Joao Pedro demonstrated immediate chemistry and potential.
- PSG struggled against Chelsea’s pressing and long balls, revealing defensive vulnerabilities.
This triumphant victory, spearheaded by tactical brilliance and standout individual performances, suggests that the “Chelsea Project” under Enzo Maresca might finally be coming to fruition, while PSG faces a crucial re-evaluation ahead of the new season.
