Paris Saint-Germain began their quest for the FIFA Club World Cup title in emphatic fashion, securing a dominant 4-0 victory over 10-man Atletico Madrid in their Group B opener at the Rose Bowl. Both clubs were making their debut in the prestigious competition.
The European champions, already boasting a quadruple this season, were tested early by a spirited Atletico side. A Julian Alvarez free-kick narrowly missed Gianluigi Donnarumma’s goal within three minutes, serving an immediate warning to the Parisians. PSG’s attack soon found its rhythm, with Jan Oblak called into action in the 17th minute to deny Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s strike.
However, Oblak could do little two minutes later as Fabian Ruiz broke the deadlock. Receiving a layoff from Kvaratskhelia, Ruiz drilled a precise shot into the bottom corner, giving PSG the lead. Following the opening goal, Luis Enrique’s side asserted control, dominating possession despite the challenging Californian heat.
Atletico Madrid nearly found an equalizer through Antoine Griezmann, whose clean shot was saved by Donnarumma. PSG quickly capitalized on the counter-attack, doubling their advantage. Kvaratskhelia once again turned provider, setting up Vitinha, who calmly guided his shot past Oblak, giving PSG a comfortable two-goal cushion at halftime.
The second half saw PSG continue their attacking display. Nuno Mendes orchestrated another dangerous opportunity, setting up Kvaratskhelia, whose curling effort was tipped onto the crossbar by Oblak. Atletico thought they had pulled a goal back when Alvarez found the net, but VAR intervened, disallowing the goal for a foul by Koke in the build-up.
Atletico’s hopes for a comeback were further dashed 11 minutes from time when Clement Lenglet received a second yellow card for protesting a referee’s decision, leaving Diego Simeone’s side with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Atletico created their best chance moments later, only for Alexander Sorloth to blaze over from close range.
PSG ultimately secured their third goal after Atletico failed to clear an Achraf Hakimi ball, with Senny Mayulu slotting home to confirm the French club’s first-ever competitive win against Simeone’s Atletico, marking the 10th time Enrique has bested his counterpart. In added time, a VAR review spotted a handball by Robin Le Normand inside the area, allowing Lee Kang-in to bury the resulting penalty, completing a miserable evening for Atletico and sealing a resounding 4-0 victory for PSG.
This dominant performance in their toughest group stage fixture on paper solidifies Paris Saint-Germain’s position as strong contenders for the FIFA Club World Cup title.
