Paris Saint-Germain stunned Atletico Madrid with a ruthless 4-0 win in their Club World Cup opener.
From midfield dominance to clinical finishing, the French champions left no room for resistance.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) delivered a commanding performance to dismantle Atletico Madrid 4-0 in their opening Group B clash of the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday night. The reigning European champions dominated proceedings from start to finish at West End Stadium, showcasing tactical precision, squad depth, and overall control.
The Parisians opened their account in the 19th minute when Fabian Ruiz fired home a precise left-footed strike from outside the box. The goal came after sustained pressure, with Ruiz linking up effortlessly with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who would later provide a crucial assist.
Just before the break, Vitinha doubled PSG’s lead. In first-half added time, Kvaratskhelia again played the provider on a swift counterattack, releasing Vitinha for a well-placed shot into the bottom right corner, leaving Atletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak helpless.
Despite Atletico Madrid’s attempts to claw their way back into the game after halftime, PSG remained firmly in control. The Spanish side came close on a few occasions, most notably through Alexander Sørloth and Antoine Griezmann, but they lacked the finishing edge, and PSG’s goalkeeper, Gianluigi Donnarumma, made crucial saves when needed.
Tensions boiled over late in the second half. Atletico were reduced to ten men in the 78th minute after defender Clément Lenglet received a second yellow card for a reckless challenge, compounding an already difficult evening for Diego Simeone’s side.
PSG took full advantage of the numerical superiority. Youngster Senny Mayulu made an immediate impact after coming off the bench, scoring in the 87th minute. He calmly slotted in from the center of the box after being teed up by Ibrahim Mbaye, effectively ending Atletico’s faint hopes of a comeback.
Deep into stoppage time, PSG were awarded a penalty after Robin Le Normand handled the ball in the area. Lee Kang-In stepped up and converted coolly to the bottom left corner, sealing a comprehensive 4-0 victory for the French giants.
The match featured several disciplinary incidents, with Atletico receiving multiple yellow cards as frustration grew. In total, both teams made several substitutions in an attempt to shift momentum or manage fitness, but PSG’s bench proved far more influential.
Paris Saint-Germain will next face Brazilian side Botafogo as they aim to secure early qualification for the knockout stage. Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, will be under pressure to bounce back when they take on Seattle Sounders in their second group fixture.
Match Summary:
- Goals:
- Fabian Ruiz (19’)
- Vitinha (45’+1)
- Senny Mayulu (87’)
- Lee Kang-In (90’+7, pen)
- Red Card:
- Clément Lenglet (Atletico Madrid, 78’ – second yellow)
- Key Performers:
- Fabian Ruiz: Opened scoring and dictated midfield play.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Provided two key assists.
- Senny Mayulu: Impactful substitution with a goal and assist.
- Next Fixtures:
- PSG vs Botafogo
- Atletico Madrid vs Seattle Sounders
The victory not only reaffirms PSG’s elite status on the global stage but also sends a strong signal to other contenders. For Atletico, a major regroup is needed if they are to keep their Club World Cup hopes alive.
