By Martin Graham
Paris Saint-Germain continued their ruthless run in 2025 by overwhelming Real Madrid 4-0 in the semi-final of the Club World Cup. With three goals inside the opening 24 minutes—two from Fabian Ruiz and one from Ousmane Dembele—Luis Enrique’s side left no doubt about their superiority. Goncalo Ramos added a late fourth to complete the demolition, setting up a final clash against Chelsea in New Jersey this Sunday.
The Spanish manager’s squad has emerged as a powerhouse this year, having previously dismantled Inter Milan 5-0 in the Champions League final just weeks ago. Despite a hiccup against Botafogo, they have brushed aside top-tier opponents including Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich, conceding none and scoring with ease. Even when reduced to nine players, they managed a 2-0 victory over the German champions.
A new era at PSG
Luis Enrique has crafted a side far removed from PSG’s previous star-centric model. The exits of Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe—both of whom were on the receiving end of 4-0 losses with Inter Miami and Real Madrid respectively—have paved the way for a younger, hungrier team. Gareth Bale described them as “relentless” and “embarrassing teams,” while Andros Townsend praised Enrique for “creating a monster.”
The dynamic front line now features players like Dembele, Desire Doue, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with Bradley Barcola occasionally joining the mix. Behind them, the midfield trio of Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Ruiz control possession and tempo with ease. “When they dictate the game like that, they’re unstoppable,” said John Obi Mikel at halftime.
Collective brilliance defines the new PSG
This iteration of PSG is built on energy, coordination, and pressure from all parts of the pitch. Full-backs Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes are instrumental to the system, constantly surging forward and contributing to attacks. Callum Wilson likened their style to “watching Fifa,” highlighting the fluid, attacking nature of their play.
Having already captured the Ligue 1 title, the French Cup, and the Champions League, the Paris club is now within reach of a fourth major title this year. If they also claim the Trophee des Champions, a five-trophy haul would mark an extraordinary clean sweep in 2025. For Chelsea, stopping PSG’s runaway form will be an immense challenge, especially as the French side has not conceded in their last five knockout matches—scoring 18 times in the process.
Luis Enrique, who previously guided Barcelona to a Treble, is now making a compelling case as one of football’s top tacticians with another dominant season.
