Fabian Ruiz scores twice as dominant PSG set up a showdown with Chelsea
New York — Paris Saint-Germain delivered a stunning performance at MetLife Stadium on Wednesday, dismantling Real Madrid 4-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal to book a final clash with Chelsea.
Midfielder Fabian Ruiz netted a brace, while Ousmane Dembele added a goal and an assist in a game that left Madrid reeling and eliminated Kylian Mbappe in his first match against his former club.
Blistering First Half Buries Real
PSG wasted no time asserting dominance, racing to a 3-0 lead within 24 minutes:
Madrid’s possession woes were stark — PSG held 76.5% of the ball in the first half alone.
PSG Defense Shuts Down Mbappe
Former PSG star Mbappe, who joined Madrid last year, started alongside Gonzalo Garcia but failed to score. PSG’s backline was impenetrable, with Gianluigi Donnarumma making two routine saves and securing his fifth clean sheet in six matches.
Madrid’s injury list grew with Trent Alexander-Arnold missing due to a training knock.
Late Goal Adds Insult
Substitute Goncalo Ramos capped the rout with a goal in the 87th minute, slotting home after a defensive lapse.
The game was played under extreme heat, with a scorching 33°C (91°F) temperature and high humidity pushing the real feel to 38°C (101°F). Still, 77,542 fans packed the stadium, many supporting Madrid, only to witness a PSG masterclass.
Final Against Chelsea Awaits
Now set to face Chelsea on Sunday, PSG hopes to make history by becoming the first French club to win the FIFA Club World Cup. Chelsea, the 2021 champions, defeated Club America to book their spot.
PSG’s run has already earned them between $88.4 million and $113.8 million in prize and participation money.
