FIFA Club World Cup: PSG in final after thrashing Real Madrid 4-0
Fabian Ruiz struck twice (6', 24'), Ousmane Dembele netted in the 9th minute, and substitute Goncalo Ramos sealed the victory with an 87th-minute strike as PSG dismantled Madrid's defence in a dominant semifinal display.
The win brings the French champions within touching distance of a historic quadruple, having already clinched Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the UEFA Champions League titles this season.
Despite fielding Kylian Mbappe from the start- his first against former club Real Madrid, it was Ruiz and Dembele who stole the show. Ruiz was later named the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match.
Madrid, under pressure early, never recovered from defensive lapses. Coach Xabi Alonso had to reshuffle his backline with Dean Huijsen suspended and Trent Alexander-Arnold out injured. His replacement Raul Asencio struggled, and costly mistakes by him and Antonio Rudiger gifted PSG their opening goals.
Ruiz capitalised on a defensive error to open the scoring, before Dembele doubled the lead following a turnover by Rudiger. Another swift counter saw Ruiz make it 3-0 by the 24th minute. Ramos added the final blow late on, showcasing PSG's attacking depth.
The match also marked an emotional moment for Real Madrid's veteran Luka Modric, who received a standing ovation as he came off the bench for his final appearance with the club.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique lauded the team's intensity and called the moment 'special,' adding, 'We want to make history for our club.' Real's goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois admitted PSG's fast start caught them off-guard and shaped the outcome.
The final between PSG and Chelsea is scheduled for July 14 IST, at the same venue, where the Parisians aim to cap off a memorable season with global glory.
Match Summary: Paris Saint-Germain 4-0 Real Madrid C.F. Goals: Fabian Ruiz (6', 24') Ousmane Dembele (9') Goncalo Ramos (87')
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