Al Rayyan, Qatar – 17 December 2025 – Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defeated Flamengo 2–1 on penalties after a 1–1 draw in regulation and extra time to win the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup. The match was played at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar, in front of a capacity crowd, marking a high-profile clash between European and South American champions.
PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov emerged as the hero, saving four penalties to secure victory and claim PSG’s first Intercontinental Cup title. The win capped a historic year for PSG, who also claimed Ligue 1, the French Cup, the Champions League, and the European Super Cup in 2025.
Early Drama and Goal Scorers
The opening half saw PSG initially believe they had scored when Fabian Ruiz found the net, but the goal was overturned by VAR after the ball had gone out of play. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute when Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (PSG) scored after a cleared cross from Desire Doue. Flamengo equalized in the 62nd minute via a penalty converted by Jorginho (Flamengo) after a foul on Giorgian de Arrascaeta.
PSG midfielder Warren Zaire-Emery praised his team, saying, “We can be proud of ourselves, we played a great match against a tough opponent. Now we have to continue like this because the toughest part of the season is still ahead of us”
Tactical Battle and Key Moments
Both teams started the match at a high tempo, with Flamengo pressing aggressively to challenge PSG’s defense, while PSG controlled possession and looked to build through midfield. PSG created several chances in the first half, but in the second half, Flamengo capitalized on quick transitions and earned a penalty converted by Jorginho to equalize in the 62nd minute, while PSG sought to regain the lead through sustained pressure on the flanks and key contributions from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue.
PSG’s coach Luis Enrique introduced Ousmane Dembélé to increase attacking options, and goalkeeper Matvey Safonov made critical saves, particularly in moments when Flamengo threatened dangerous counterattacks. Overall, the match reflected a tight tactical battle, with PSG’s structured build-up eventually setting the stage for the decisive penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout Heroics
After the 1–1 draw in regulation and extra time, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where PSG triumphed 2–1. Matvey Safonov, PSG’s goalkeeper, was the hero, making multiple crucial saves that determined the outcome. Flamengo converted only one of their attempts, while PSG successfully scored two, securing the Intercontinental Cup victory.
Safonov’s performance was widely praised by commentators and analysts, who described his composure under pressure as the key factor in PSG’s triumph. Following the match, PSG captain remarked that the shootout tested the team’s focus and mentality, highlighting the importance of concentration in decisive moments
