What many anticipated as an "early final" turned out to be a display of sheer power. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) left no doubts in the 2025 Club World Cup semifinal, delivering a historic 4-0 thrashing to Real Madrid this Wednesday, July 9th. With this convincing result, the Parisian team not only sealed its passage to the grand final of the tournament but also unequivocally asserts itself as the best club in the world this season.
Neither Real Madrid's mystique, nor Xabi Alonso's tactical mastery on the bench, nor the debut of stars like Kylian Mbappé on the Merengue side could stop PSG's overwhelming performance. Even without the presence of their solid defender Willian Pacho, who was suspended, Luis Enrique's team showed a cohesion, efficiency, and hunger for victory that far surpassed their opponent. This match is not only a milestone in the history of both clubs but also marks a before and after in the balance of power in European and world football. How did this thrashing come about? What were the keys to the Parisian victory? Join us as we analyze a night that will be etched in the memory of fans.
The Buildup: A Duel Full of Expectation
The clash between PSG and Real Madrid was the most anticipated match of the Club World Cup. The recent rivalry in the Champions League and the quality of the squads promised an epic encounter.
- The Thrill of the Reunion: The last time these giants met was in the 2022 Champions League Round of 16, with a memorable Real Madrid comeback. This precedent added a layer of anticipation and a desire for revenge on PSG's part.
- Notable Absence for PSG: The suspension of Willian Pacho, an undisputed starter in the Parisian defense, created some uncertainty about PSG's defensive solidity. However, the team demonstrated that their squad depth and collective system were superior to individual absences.
- The Mbappé Factor for Real Madrid: With Kylian Mbappé now wearing the white shirt, the pressure on Real Madrid to show their offensive power was immense. Many expected the French forward to be the tormentor of his former team.
From the opening whistle, PSG came out with an intensity and determination that Real Madrid could not match.
- Overwhelming First Half: Luis Enrique's team gave no quarter. High pressure, quick ball recovery, and dizzying transitions overwhelmed a Real Madrid that was surprised by the Parisian rhythm and aggressiveness. Goals came consecutively, the result of brilliant collective play and clinical finishing.
- Luis Enrique's Tactical Superiority: Luis Enrique's tactical approach was masterful. His team not only neutralized Real Madrid's strengths but also exploited their weaknesses, especially in midfield and defense. The mobility of their attackers and the ability of their midfielders to break lines dismantled the Merengue squad.
- An Overwhelmed Real Madrid: The white team, for its part, was unrecognizable. Players couldn't find their rhythm, passes weren't connecting, and the defense showed worrying cracks. Frustration was visible on the faces of figures like Luka Modrić and in Xabi Alonso's gestures from the sideline, helpless against the Parisian onslaught.
- Goals That Make the Difference: PSG's four goals were not a fluke. Each was a testament to the tactical superiority and individual quality of the Parisian players, who finished with precision and determination. The 4-0 at halftime was a true reflection of what was happening on the field.
Beyond qualifying for the final, this 4-0 victory has significant implications for PSG's status in world football.
- Affirmation as a Global Powerhouse: After years of investment and ambition, this rout of Real Madrid in a Club World Cup semifinal is the clearest confirmation that PSG has achieved true global powerhouse status. They are no longer just a team of stars, but a team that competes with and dominates historical giants.
- Dominance in the Current Season: The victory is the culmination of a season where PSG has shown exceptional performance, both domestically and internationally. This result gives them a strong argument to be considered the best club in the world this current season, surpassing other contenders.
- A Psychological Blow for Real Madrid: For Real Madrid, this thrashing is a devastating blow. Accustomed to dominating in Europe, such a heavy defeat against a direct rival for global dominance forces them into deep reflection and to rethink aspects of their game and squad.
- The Luis Enrique Factor: The Spanish coach has managed to mold a team with a clear identity, capable of performing under pressure and deploying offensive and effective football. This victory is a big boost to his project in Paris.
- A Message for the Final: PSG sends a clear message to their future opponent in the final: they are a formidable team, on a roll, and determined to take home the title.
The Road to the Final and What's Next
With the semifinal decided, PSG is now looking to the final obstacle to be crowned Club World Cup champions.
- A Coveted Trophy: Winning the Club World Cup in its new format is a huge prestige and a milestone for any club. PSG is one step away from writing a new page in its history.
- Real Madrid's Resilience: Despite the rout, Real Madrid is a club with proven resilience. While this defeat is a harsh blow, they have the character and history to bounce back and continue competing at the highest level.
The night of July 9, 2025, will be marked as the day Paris Saint-Germain not only eliminated Real Madrid from the Club World Cup but did so with a historic 4-0 thrashing, establishing themselves as the team to beat this season. The final awaits them, and the football world has taken note of the unstoppable rise of the Parisian giant.