Can Chelsea really challenge PSG in the Club World Cup final?
Chelsea are gearing up for the Club World Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain, and the big question on everyone’s lips is whether this revamped Blues side can truly put up a fight.
The answer isn’t simple, but the signs are encouraging, writes Sports News Blitz content deputy editor Nicole Powell.
A steadying ship under Maresca
Since taking over in July 2024, Enzo Maresca has reshaped the playing squad.
He has retained Andrey Santos, fresh from a breakthrough loan at Strasbourg, and brought in new signings designed to bolster key positions. These include forwards Liam Delap from Ipswich and Joao Pedro.
Liam Delap made an instant impact, getting an assist on his debut, and scoring in Chelsea’s final group stage game.
Having teased potential in the quarter-final as a substitue, Joao Pedro made a dramatic impact in the semi-final, bagging both goals in a 2-0 win over Fluminense that secured Chelsea’s place in the final.
That win was no fluke. Despite being lower-profile than PSG, Chelsea’s tactical discipline under Maresca has delivered a balance between controlled possession and clinicality.
That resilience, alongside a structured system, gives them a fighting chance against a star-studded PSG side. Not to mention, Pacho and Luis Hernandez will still be unavailable for PSG after being handed red cards in their quarter-final win against Bayern Munich.
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The ultimate test awaits
But they’ll face a stiffer test than in the semis. PSG arrive fresh from dismantling Real Madrid 4-0.
The Parisians won the treble this season, having claimed the Ligue 1 title, the French Cup, and the UEFA Champions League, and are still playing like the best team in the world.
Meanwhile, Conference League winners Chelsea have stormed through this competition with confidence and emerging stars, but not with the control and technical dominance that PSG have perfected in recent weeks.
Ready for the big stage
As Sunday’s final at the MetLife Stadium approaches, all bets are off.
But don’t be surprised if the Blues punch well above their weight. They’ve made a habit of winning titles as underdogs.
Whether they lift the trophy remains to be seen, but on current form, Chelsea can certainly claim they are ready to fight.
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