Safonov’s Four Penalty Saves Deliver PSG’s First Global Crown

Paris Saint-Germain finally reached the summit of global club football on Wednesday night in Doha, as goalkeeper Matvei Safonov produced a heroic performance to secure the Intercontinental Cup — the club’s first-ever global title. In a dramatic final against South American champions Flamengo, PSG prevailed 2–1 in a penalty shoot-out after the match finished 1–1 following extra time.

The spotlight belonged firmly to Safonov, whose extraordinary composure under pressure defined the night. During the shoot-out, the Russian goalkeeper saved four penalties almost single-handedly, tilting the contest decisively in PSG’s favour and etching his name into the club’s history.

The final, held in Qatar’s capital, unfolded as a closely fought contest between two continental champions. PSG struck first in the 38th minute when Khicha Kvaratskhelia found the net with a composed finish. Flamengo responded after the break, with experienced midfielder Jorginho converting a penalty in the 62nd minute to restore parity.

Despite sustained pressure from both sides, neither team could find a winning goal in regulation time or the additional 30 minutes of extra time. As tension mounted, the match was decided by penalties, where Safonov’s brilliance proved decisive. His four saves ensured PSG emerged victorious, sealing a historic triumph.

This victory marks PSG’s sixth major trophy of 2025, following earlier successes in the French Super Cup, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup under manager Luis Enrique. Previously, PSG had come agonisingly close to global silverware, finishing runners-up in the FIFA Club World Cup after defeat to Chelsea. Wednesday’s win therefore represents a landmark moment — the club’s first official global title.

Speaking after the match, PSG midfielder Vitinha praised both teams’ commitment and intensity. “Flamengo are an exceptional and fiercely competitive side,” he said. “We knew it would be difficult. Both teams wanted to win and gave everything. We fought with full commitment, and in the end, penalties decided the outcome.”

The Intercontinental Cup is a FIFA-organised tournament that returned in a revamped format, bringing together champions from six continental confederations. While European champions enter directly at the final stage, teams from other regions must navigate earlier rounds to reach the summit clash. The competition was first staged in Qatar in 2024, replacing the previous knockout-style Club World Cup held between 2005 and 2023. Real Madrid claimed the inaugural title by defeating Mexico’s Pachuca.

This year’s final, featuring Europe’s PSG and South America’s Flamengo, delivered drama, quality and a defining individual performance — one that finally crowned PSG as global champions.

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