East Rutherford, NJ—-Chelsea secured a landmark victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup final on Sunday, but the historic win was overshadowed by a post-match brawl on the pitch at MetLife Stadium.
The Blues sealed the title with a commanding 3-0 performance, led by Cole Palmer’s sensational first-half display. The 22-year-old midfielder netted twice and assisted João Pedro in a performance that left the reigning UEFA Champions League winners reeling.
However, tempers flared after the final whistle. As Chelsea’s players celebrated near the center circle, several PSG players confronted João Pedro, the third goal-scorer. The confrontation escalated when PSG head coach Luis Enrique appeared to shove Pedro, who had squared up with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and defender Achraf Hakimi during the heated exchange.
The situation threatened to spiral further, but officials and teammates quickly intervened to diffuse the tension.
PSG’s frustration had been building throughout the second half, culminating in a red card for midfielder João Neves in the 83rd minute after he pulled Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella’s hair during an off-ball altercation. Already down by three goals, the French side finished the match with 10 men and visibly lost composure in the closing minutes.
Despite the fiery ending, Chelsea’s players eventually broke away from the chaos to celebrate with their fans, marking a memorable triumph in the revamped Club World Cup tournament.
