Paris Saint-Germain announced their intent to conquer the globe as they rolled to a 4-0 victory over Atlético Madrid in the opening match of the expanded FIFA Club World Cup at the iconic Rose Bowl. In front of 80,619 fans, the treble-winners wasted no time stamping their authority.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 19th minute, rifling a strike into the far corner after PSG dominated 62% of possession in the first half. Just before halftime, Vitinha doubled the lead with a clinical finish set up by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s second assist of the game.
In the second half, a red card to Atlético’s Clement Lenglet in the 78th minute turned the tide further in PSG’s favor. Senny Mayulu added a third goal in the 87th minute, and Lee Kang-in sealed the emphatic win from the spot on the final kick.
Atlético carved out moments of promise, including a disallowed goal for Julián Álvarez after a VAR foul call, but couldn’t break down PSG’s impenetrable defense. An open-net miss by Alexander Sørloth summed up their afternoon woes.
PSG’s seamless blend of youth and experience under coach Luis Enrique shows why they’re favorites to lift the Club World Cup trophy. As digital nomads, football fans, and global citizens tune in, this statement win sends a clear message: PSG’s world takeover is underway.
Reference(s):
PSG thumps Atletico Madrid 4-0 in impressive Club World Cup opener
cgtn.com
