European champions Paris Saint Germain capped an impressive year by defeating Brazilian counterpart Flamengo to claim the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
In the final match held at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, PSG became the first French club in history to win a global club title after penalty shootout win over the Brazilians.
Luis Enrique’s side had thrashed Inter Milan 5-0 in the UEFA Champions League final, but lost 3-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup final to Chelsea and needed to avoid another final heartbreak.
Fabian Ruiz put them ahead early on, after a mistake by Flamengo goalkeeper Agustin Rossi, but the Video Assistant Referee ruled the goal out after the ball had gone out of play.
The Copa Libertadores champions also threatened to score, but were denied by Matvei Safonov in the PSG goal.
However, the French team took the lead in the 38th minute as a fine ball from Desire Doue was missed by Rossi, allowing Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to tap into an empty net.
In the second half, captain Marquinhos was adjudged to have fouled Giorgian de Arrascaeta inside the penalty area by the VAR.
Former Chelsea midfielder Jorginho stepped up and calmly rolled the ball past Safonov to level matters.
The European champions then wasted several chances to get back ahead, as the game went into extra-time.
PSG were the better side in the 30 minutes additional time, but could not find a way past Rossi, sending the match into penalty shootout.
Safonov was the hero of the day, making four saves from Flamengo’s five kick’s as the French side triumphed to win their first Intercontinental title.
They also became the third club after Barcelona and Bayern Munich, to win six trophies in a calendar year, capping off a historic 2025.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
