PSG Destroys Real Madrid 4-0 to Reach Club World Cup Final

Post by : Priya

  Photo:AFP

In a historic display of footballing excellence, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a powerful statement to the world by crushing Real Madrid 4-0 in the semi-final of the FIFA Club World Cup. The match, held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, saw the French giants completely dominate one of the most successful football clubs in history. With goals from Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vitinha, and Gonçalo Ramos, PSG outclassed the Spanish champions in every department — attack, midfield, defense, and tactics.

This result is not just a significant victory; it is a milestone that reflects PSG’s transformation from a club of domestic dominance into a genuine force on the global stage. For Real Madrid, it was a night of disappointment, mistakes, and lost opportunities. The loss raises serious questions about their preparedness, squad structure, and strategy moving forward.

The Build-Up: Clash of European Heavyweights

The Club World Cup semi-final between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid was billed as one of the biggest clashes of the tournament. With a rich history, world-class players, and high stakes, this encounter attracted global attention.

PSG entered the match with high confidence after cruising through the earlier stages of the tournament. Under the guidance of manager Luis Enrique, the team had started to show consistency and character. On the other hand, Real Madrid — 14-time UEFA Champions League winners — were expected to pose a major challenge. The Spanish side came into the game with a reputation for turning up in big matches, particularly in knockout competitions.

However, what unfolded on the pitch told a completely different story.

First-Half Brilliance: PSG Seize Control Early
From the first whistle, it was evident that PSG meant business. The French side pressed high, moved the ball quickly, and created chances with ease. Within the first 15 minutes, Real Madrid’s defense was under immense pressure.

12th Minute: Mbappé Opens the Floodgates

Kylian Mbappé, PSG’s talisman and captain, scored the opening goal in the 12th minute. After receiving a precise through ball from Vitinha, he sprinted past Éder Militão and calmly placed the ball beyond Thibaut Courtois. The goal set the tone for the rest of the evening.

Mbappé’s pace, positioning, and composure were a nightmare for Madrid’s defenders. Throughout the match, he remained a constant threat, drawing defenders out of position and opening space for his teammates.

22nd Minute: Dembélé Doubles the Lead

Just ten minutes later, PSG struck again. This time, Achraf Hakimi made a blistering run down the right wing and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Ousmane Dembélé met it with a powerful volley, giving Courtois no chance. The second goal deflated Madrid and sent the PSG fans into raptures.

At this point, it became clear that Real Madrid were struggling to cope with PSG’s high tempo and aggressive pressing.

Real Madrid's Weak Response

For a team with as much experience and talent as Real Madrid, their reaction was surprisingly poor. The midfield trio of Toni Kroos, Jude Bellingham, and Eduardo Camavinga could not control the game or create meaningful opportunities.

Vinícius Jr. looked isolated on the left wing, while Rodrygo failed to connect with the midfield. Karim Benzema’s absence was deeply felt, and the lack of a natural striker left Madrid toothless in attack.

Ancelotti’s attempt to switch to a more attacking setup before halftime did little to change the direction of the match. PSG maintained possession, won most second balls, and continued to control the tempo.

Second Half: Total Domination

After the break, Real Madrid tried to come out with more purpose. They pushed higher up the field and tried to win back control. But PSG were well-prepared. Their midfield, led by Manuel Ugarte and Vitinha, continued to dictate the game. Marco Asensio added calmness and experience in the middle of the park.

55th Minute: Vitinha’s Wonder Goal

In the 55th minute, Vitinha produced a moment of magic. After a brief spell of possession, he received the ball outside the penalty box and curled a stunning shot into the top corner. Courtois, despite diving full stretch, couldn’t get a hand on it.

The goal was a symbol of PSG’s confidence. At 3-0, the match was virtually over, but the Paris side wasn’t done yet.

78th Minute: Gonçalo Ramos Finishes the Job
Gonçalo Ramos came off the bench to add the final touch to PSG’s masterclass. After a quick counterattack initiated by Mbappé, Ramos found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper and coolly finished the move with a low shot. The goal sealed a memorable 4-0 win.

Tactical Analysis: Enrique’s Plan Pays Off
Luis Enrique deserves immense credit for this performance. His tactics were clear and effective:

High Pressing: PSG’s forwards and midfielders pressed Madrid’s backline, forcing mistakes and rushed passes.

Compact Midfield: Vitinha and Ugarte controlled the central areas, cutting off Madrid’s supply lines.

Wide Play: Hakimi and Nuno Mendes provided width, stretching Madrid’s defense and allowing Mbappé and Dembélé to exploit the half-spaces.

Defensive Stability: Marquinhos and Skriniar kept a tight line at the back, limiting Madrid to long shots and ineffective crosses.

In contrast, Ancelotti’s men looked flat. Their midfield lacked energy, their full-backs failed to support attacks effectively, and the lack of a central striker meant their possession had no end product.

Reactions from the Football World

PSG’s Joy
After the final whistle, PSG players and fans celebrated one of the most important wins in the club’s history. Kylian Mbappé, speaking after the match, said:

"This is a great night for us. We’ve worked hard, and it’s paying off. But our job is not finished — we want to win the final."

Luis Enrique added:

"This victory is not just about talent. It’s about focus, preparation, and teamwork. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved today."

Madrid’s Pain
The mood in the Madrid camp was completely different. Carlo Ancelotti looked frustrated and admitted that PSG were the better team.

"We didn’t play with the intensity needed. PSG punished every mistake. We have to accept this loss and look ahead," he said.

What’s Next?

PSG’s Road to Glory
PSG will now face the winner of the other semi-final — Manchester City or Egyptian champions Al Ahly — in the Club World Cup final. A win in the final would be PSG’s first major global title, a goal they’ve been chasing for years.

The French club’s owners have invested heavily over the past decade, and this tournament offers a chance to justify those investments.

Madrid’s Moment of Reflection
For Real Madrid, this defeat is a wake-up call. The Spanish giants will need to address several issues, including squad depth, age in midfield, and the lack of a central striker. With the new La Liga season and UEFA competitions ahead, recovery and planning will be key.