Paris Saint-Germain delivered a dominant performance, securing a resounding 4-0 victory over Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With this win, PSG advances to the final where they will face Chelsea.
Fabian Ruiz was the star of the match, scoring twice in the first half. Ousmane Dembélé also contributed with a goal and an assist, while Gonçalo Ramos sealed the victory with a late goal. PSG's early dominance saw them build a 3-0 lead within the first 24 minutes, leaving Real Madrid struggling to respond.
Real Madrid, despite boasting a star-studded lineup including Kylian Mbappe, who was facing his former team for the first time, were unable to make an impact. The Spanish giants appeared sluggish, perhaps due to traveling to Florida for training between games. PSG dominated possession, particularly in the first half, with 76.5%.
PSG's goals came as a result of both clinical finishing and capitalizing on Real Madrid's defensive errors. Ruiz's first goal was a result of Raul Asencio's mis-hit, while Dembélé's goal followed a mis-hit from Antonio Rüdiger. The absence of key defenders Dean Huijsen, who was red-carded in the previous match, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was sidelined with a leg injury, further weakened Real Madrid's defense.
Despite a late substitution that saw Luka Modrić enter the game, potentially for his last appearance with Real Madrid, and Éder Militão returning from injury, Real Madrid was unable to mount a comeback. PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma made two saves, contributing to his team's clean sheet.
Following the match, Fabian Ruiz expressed his delight with the team's "perfect performance," especially considering the heat. He emphasized the importance of the team's performance against a tough opponent and expressed happiness about reaching the final.
PSG's victory was comprehensive, leaving no doubt about their superiority on the day. They now look forward to the final against Chelsea, where they will aim to add the Club World Cup title to their recent European title. The final match is scheduled for Sunday.
