Quick Read
- PSG defeated Flamengo on penalties (2-1) after a 1-1 draw in the Intercontinental Cup final in Doha.
- Matvei Safonov made four straight penalty saves, securing PSG’s sixth trophy of 2025.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia scored for PSG; Jorginho equalized for Flamengo with a penalty.
- PSG claimed their first-ever global title, capping a historic year.
- Referee: Ismail Elfath; match held at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.
PSG Triumph in Doha: Intercontinental Cup Glory Secured
Paris Saint-Germain’s name is now etched into the history books of world football. On a cool December night in Doha, at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, the French giants overcame Flamengo, the champions of South America, to lift their first-ever Intercontinental Cup. The final was a showcase of grit, resilience, and nerves—culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout that saw PSG prevail 2-1 after a 1-1 draw through extra time.
How the Drama Unfolded: Key Moments From a Global Final
The match began with intensity, befitting the stature of the two sides. PSG, under the stewardship of Luis Enrique, entered as reigning UEFA Champions League holders, eager to cap a trophy-laden year. Flamengo, fresh off their Copa Libertadores and Brazilian league triumphs, arrived hungry to reclaim the Intercontinental Cup they last won in 1981.
PSG started strong, exploiting Flamengo’s defensive gaps. Early in the first half, a scare for the Brazilian side came when Fabián thought he’d netted the opener, only for the goal to be disallowed as the ball had crossed the line before the finish. Flamengo’s Erick Pulgar showed promise in attack but couldn’t sustain the pressure.
The breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute. Désiré Doué sent in a dangerous cross, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia pounced—slotting the ball home after Flamengo’s goalkeeper Agustín Rossi managed only a faint touch. PSG’s bench erupted, sensing the momentum was firmly theirs.
Flamengo’s Fightback and the Turning Point
The second half saw Flamengo regroup and push back. PSG, seemingly in control, were caught off guard when Marquinhos brought down Giorgian De Arrascaeta in the penalty area. VAR intervened, and referee Ismail Elfath pointed to the spot. Jorginho stepped up and calmly converted, leveling the score at 1-1 in the 62nd minute.
Flamengo’s renewed energy threatened to tip the balance. Late in regulation, Marquinhos nearly redeemed himself for PSG, but missed an opportunity that could have sealed the trophy in normal time. As extra time wore on, both teams pressed, yet neither could find a breakthrough.
Penalty Shootout: Safonov’s Heroics and PSG’s Coronation
With the match still deadlocked, it came down to penalties—a test of nerves and technique. PSG’s Matvei Safonov emerged as the unlikely hero, saving four consecutive Flamengo spot-kicks. Vitinha scored PSG’s first penalty, and though Flamengo’s Jorginho missed his chance to put his side ahead, the Brazilian team’s struggles from the spot proved fatal.
When the dust settled, PSG had won the shootout 2-1. Safonov was hoisted into the air by jubilant teammates, his performance sealing the club’s sixth trophy in a single, unforgettable year.
Legacy and Reflection: A Year to Remember for PSG
This victory capped a historic run for the Parisians, who now hold the Trophée des Champions, French league, French Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Intercontinental Cup—all in 2025. For Flamengo, the pain was palpable. “There’s no other word but pride,” said Jorginho after the match. “The team gave everything, fought, left everything on the field to honour the jersey. It’s a shame to end like this. It ends with a bitter taste.”
Vitinha echoed respect for the opposition: “Flamengo is a fantastic, super competitive team. The best compliment I can give is that we were 100% in this game. We really wanted to win this competition, and even so, we only won on penalties.”
For PSG, this was not just another trophy—it was a first global title, a statement of intent, and a culmination of years of ambition.
What the Future Holds: European and South American Rivalry
The final reaffirmed Europe’s current dominance in global club football, but it also showcased the passion and competitive edge of South American champions. Flamengo’s spirited performance, especially in the second half, kept the contest alive until the very end.
As the footballing world looks ahead, the Intercontinental Cup’s renewed relevance promises more such dramatic showdowns between continents. For now, PSG bask in the glory, their squad and fans united by a sense of achievement that transcends borders.
PSG’s triumph in Doha was not just about lifting another trophy—it was a testament to resilience under pressure, tactical acumen, and individual brilliance. Matvei Safonov’s penalty heroics will be remembered for years, and this win cements PSG’s position at the summit of club football for 2025. For Flamengo, the defeat stings, but their journey and performance in the final highlight the enduring quality of South American football on the world stage.