Real Madrid vs PSG Live 0-4 in Club World Cup Semifinal — Sets Up Final Clash with Chelsea
Paris Saint-Germain have made a thunderous statement in world football, thrashing Real Madrid 4-0 in the Club World Cup semifinal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. The French champions now advance to Sunday’s final against Chelsea, looking to cap off a historic run that includes the Champions League, Ligue 1, and Coupe de France trophies.
From the opening whistle, PSG looked dominant — tactically fluid, physically sharp, and mentally ruthless. Their intensity overwhelmed a sluggish Real Madrid squad that appeared out of sync and ill-prepared for the pace and precision of Luis Enrique’s side. Within minutes, PSG were on the scoreboard, capitalizing on defensive errors and poor decision-making by Madrid’s backline.
Raul Asencio’s hesitancy gifted PSG their opening goal, while Antonio Rüdiger’s air-kick blunder led to a second. By the time the third goal went in, Madrid had barely managed to string together coherent possession. It was the kind of clinical dismantling reminiscent of Manchester City’s 4-0 annihilation of Madrid in the 2023 Champions League — cold, calculated, and complete.
For Real Madrid, this match marked the official end of the Carlo Ancelotti era and the turbulent beginning of Xabi Alonso’s tenure. Despite hopes of a new chapter, the Spanish giants looked fatigued and disconnected — their 68th competitive fixture of the season highlighting the toll of a congested football calendar. Alonso admitted he was “starting from scratch,” and the performance certainly reflected that.
PSG, on the other hand, continue to evolve into a juggernaut. Every player fits seamlessly into Enrique’s system. Their attack is dynamic, their midfield is controlled, and their defense — though barely tested — remains solid. With the Club World Cup potentially marking their fourth major title in just three months, it’s hard to argue they aren’t the world’s top club right now.
Off the Pitch: Key Headlines & Updates
- Carlo Ancelotti, now Brazil’s head coach, was sentenced to one year in prison in Spain for a tax offense, though he’s unlikely to serve jail time.
- Omar Gonzalez, veteran defender for Chicago Fire, received the first straight red card of his 17-year, 539-game career after a violent clash during a U.S. Open Cup match.
- Lionel Messi scored another brace for Inter Miami, setting a new MLS record with four doubles in four games.
- Xavi Simons is reportedly looking to leave RB Leipzig, with Bayern Munich exploring a deal after Jamal Musiala’s injury.
- England Women crushed the Netherlands 4-0 at Euro 2025, with standout performances from Lauren James and Hannah Hampton.
- Wrexham AFC are touring Australia, continuing their remarkable rise from non-league obscurity under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.
USMNT Fan Engagement & Stadium Culture
USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino expressed frustration with the lack of home support in U.S. stadiums after a predominantly Mexican crowd filled the Gold Cup final in Houston. “We need the fans,” he said, emphasizing that football without vocal, in-stadium support lacks soul. This echoes broader concerns about soccer culture in the U.S. ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Why It Matters
PSG’s win isn’t just about reaching another final — it’s about establishing themselves as the modern benchmark in club football. With unmatched squad depth, tactical clarity, and now a genuine winning culture, they’re not just chasing trophies — they’re rewriting the hierarchy of elite football.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid’s transitional woes are front and center. If they are to reclaim their place at the top, Xabi Alonso must quickly shape a coherent, confident team — something that clearly didn’t exist at the MetLife Stadium.
With Chelsea up next in the final, PSG now stand on the brink of history.
