Paris Saint-Germain, fresh from winning their maiden Champions League crown, made a statement in their FIFA Club World Cup opener with a commanding 4–0 victory over Atlético Madrid at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on June 15, 2025. Featuring clinical finishing and total control, PSG showcased why they are among the favourites to lift the expanded, 32-team tournament.
Dominance in All Departments
The hosts struck first through Fabián Ruiz, whose left-footed strike from range flew into the top corner in the 19th minute. Midfielder Vitinha doubled the lead just before halftime, seizing on a counterattack following an Antoine Griezmann miss and calmly slotting home.
PSG’s superiority extended beyond the scoreline—they dominated possession (74%) and outshot Atlético 11 to 1 on target.
Turning Point: Disallowed Goal & Red Card
Atlético thought they had pulled one back in the 57th minute through Julián Álvarez, but the goal was chalked off by VAR, which ruled Koke fouled PSG’s Désiré Doué in the build-up. The match slipped away entirely when Clément Lenglet received a second yellow card late in the game, reducing Atlético to ten men and quashing any hopes of a comeback .
composed finishes seal the deal
With dominance firmly established, Senny Mayulu, PSG’s rising star, added a third in the 87th minute—his youthful exuberance capped a confident cameo. Then, deep into stoppage time, Lee Kang‑in assured the margin with a penalty, rounding off a clinical team performance.
Tactical Mastery & Tactical Takeaways
Coach Luis Enrique lauded the timing of the kick-off (“best scheduled time for European countries”) and optimistic fan turnout, calling it “great to feel that love in another part of the world” . In scorching midday heat, PSG demonstrated discipline, structure, and superior fitness—three traits that will serve well in the demanding tournament format.
Vitinha, named man of the match, emphasized the collective spirit:
“As always I am going to talk about the team.”.
Star Performances Spotlight
- Fabián Ruiz: A midfield colossus—95% pass accuracy, 100% duel success, and a brilliance that highlighted his importance to both PSG and Spain.
- Vitinha: A controlled midfield engine and precise finisher—his goal was celebrated as a pivotal moment .
- Senny Mayulu: The 19-year-old academy graduate saved the best for the big stage, scoring his third goal in two high-profile finals (Champions League, Club World Cup).
- Lee Kang-in: Calmness personified in stoppage time, converting the penalty with composure.
Implications & Next Steps
This 4–0 resounding victory elevates PSG to the top of Group B, giving them confidence to build on against Botafogo in their next fixture at the Rose Bowl on Thursday.Atlético, meanwhile, travel to Seattle to face Seattle Sounders needing to regroup under pressure .
The win not only boosts morale but also reinforces PSG’s deep squad depth—despite the absence of Ousmane Dembélé, sidelined due to injury . Their dominance sends a clear message: momentum from European success has seamlessly carried into the global arena.
Final Analysis
PSG’s emphatic rout of Atlético Madrid showcased their status as serious contenders for global supremacy. Their performance combined midfield control, swift finishing, and tactical discipline—the hallmarks of a well-rounded, elite side.
