Paris St-Germain clinched the Intercontinental Cup title in a gripping penalty shootout against the Brazilian team Flamengo, marking a remarkable achievement as they secured their sixth trophy of 2025. The standout performer of the final was goalkeeper Matvey Safonov, whose extraordinary skill was on display as he remarkably saved four consecutive penalties during the shootout, a pivotal moment that firmly established PSG’s victory and reverberated throughout the football community.
As the Uefa Champions League champions, PSG followed the footsteps of their European counterparts, Real Madrid, who had won this prestigious title the previous year. The Intercontinental Cup, which features the champions of various continental competitions, allowed PSG to enter directly into the final, illustrating their dominant position in world football.
The final was hosted at the majestic Ali Stadium in Qatar, where fans created an exhilarating atmosphere filled with anticipation. The match began with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia putting PSG ahead by scoring a well-placed shot just seven minutes before the half-time break. He capitalized on a low cross from Desire Doue, darting into space at the back post, and his goal was a crucial early advantage for the French side. However, their lead was short-lived; in the 62nd minute, former Napoli and Chelsea midfielder Jorginho equalized for Flamengo by converting a penalty following a foul on Giorgian de Arrascaeta, showcasing the game’s unpredictability and intensity.
After exchanging chances, the two teams remained locked in a stalemate, with neither side managing to find the back of the net during the remaining minutes of regular time and the additional 30-minute extra time. Despite an invigorating substitution, bringing on Ousmane Dembele—who had recently been awarded the FIFA Best Player of the Year—PSG couldn’t muster a second goal against Flamengo’s stout goalkeeper, Agustin Rossi.
As the match progressed to penalties, the tension in the stadium escalated. It was here that Safonov emerged as the undisputed hero, executing four stunning saves against Flamengo’s players—denying the likes of Saul Niguez, Pedro, Leo Pereira, and Luiz Araujo. This remarkable performance was crucial, allowing PSG to triumph 2-1 in the shootout, thanks to successful penalty conversions from Vitinha and Nuno Mendes.
With this result, PSG secured their sixth trophy of 2025, adding to an already impressive haul from the season. They had previously claimed the Ligue 1 title, Coupe de France, and UEFA Champions League last year, and have since enriched their trophy cabinet with the Trophee des Champions and the UEFA Super Cup. This string of successes has firmly established the club as a powerhouse in both French and international football.
The accolades continued to roll in for the club, further highlighted by Ousmane Dembele receiving the FIFA Best award—an honor that celebrated his consistent excellence and contributions throughout the year. In addition, head coach Luis Enrique was also recognized as the best men’s coach, reflecting the significant impact that his leadership has had on the team’s performance. Notably, six players from PSG were named in the Team of the Year, underscoring the depth of talent within the squad.
As PSG looks to build on their victorious momentum, they are set to face Vendee Fontenay Foot in the Coupe de France on Saturday. Fans are eager to see what spectacular moments lie ahead, as the team continues to pursue further glory and solidify their legacy in the world of football. The road ahead is filled with promise, and the supporters are abuzz with anticipation for the thrilling matches that await.
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