Cole Palmer delivered a sensational performance, scoring twice and assisting a third, as Chelsea defeated European champions Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 to win the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup final.
The victory at MetLife Stadium solidifies Chelsea’s status as world champions, adding to their recent Conference League triumph.
Palmer’s brilliance lit up the first half. He opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a low shot, then added his second just eight minutes later.
The England international then provided a defense-splitting pass for new signing Joao Pedro to brilliantly chip Donnarumma just before halftime, giving Chelsea a commanding 3-0 lead.
Palmer’s exceptional season concludes with 18 goals and 14 assists.
PSG’s frustration mounted in the second half, culminating in João Neves receiving a straight red card for pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair in the 85th minute.
Post-match scenes turned ugly, with PSG manager Luis Enrique appearing to strike Joao Pedro.
The historic win, witnessed by a record 81,118 fans, including US President Donald Trump, caps a period of significant investment and growing success for Chelsea.
While Palmer was the undoubted star, strong performances from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and Malo Gusto were also notable.
Both teams now head into a shortened break before their respective pre-season schedules.
Chelsea will participate in a mini-tournament at Stamford Bridge in early August before their Premier League opener on August 17. PSG kicks off their season with the UEFA Super Cup on August 13.
