The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Chelsea face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, on Sunday, July 13. This all-European clash pits the UEFA Conference League champions, Chelsea, against the reigning UEFA Champions League holders, PSG, in a battle for global supremacy.
With Chelsea aiming to become the first English team to win the Club World Cup twice and PSG chasing their maiden title, the encounter promises high stakes and intense competition. Both sides have showcased their quality en route to the final, with Chelsea overcoming Fluminense in the semi-finals and PSG delivering a stunning 4-0 victory over Real Madrid.
Prediction
PSG enter the final as favorites, buoyed by their dominant performances throughout the tournament, including a resounding semi-final win over Real Madrid. Luis Enrique’s side has displayed tactical discipline, attacking flair, and defensive solidity, conceding just one goal in the Club World Cup and averaging over two goals per game. Their high-pressing style and midfield control, led by Vitinha and Joao Neves, have overwhelmed top opponents.
Chelsea, under Enzo Maresca, have grown into the tournament, leveraging a favorable knockout path against Benfica, Palmeiras, and Fluminense. The Blues’ youthful squad, spearheaded by Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro, has shown resilience and counter-attacking prowess. However, PSG’s depth, experience, and recent form give them the edge. Expect PSG to dominate possession and create more high-quality chances, while Chelsea will look to exploit transitions. A tightly contested match is likely, but PSG’s superior firepower and organization should see them lift the trophy, potentially with a 2-1 or 3-1 scoreline.
Possible lineups
Chelsea’s predicted lineup in a 4-2-3-1 formation is expected to feature Robert Sanchez in goal, tasked with a monumental performance to keep PSG’s attack at bay. The backline could consist of Malo Gusto, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah, and Marc Cucurella, with Levi Colwill potentially returning to bolster the defense. In midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, despite the latter’s recent ankle concern, are likely to start, with Romeo Lavia or Andrey Santos as possible alternatives to counter PSG’s midfield dominance. Up front, Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Christopher Nkunku will support striker Joao Pedro, whose semi-final brace highlighted his growing influence.
For PSG, a 4-2-3-1 setup is anticipated, with Gianluigi Donnarumma in goal, protected by Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Beraldo, and Nuno Mendes. The midfield trio of Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Fabian Ruiz is expected to control the tempo, while Ousmane Dembele, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Desire Doue support Goncalo Ramos up top. PSG will miss defenders Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernandez due to suspensions, but their attacking options remain formidable.
Betting tips
Betting markets reflect PSG’s favoritism, with odds around 1.7 for a PSG win in regular time, compared to Chelsea’s 5.3 and a draw at 4.4. Given both teams’ attacking output—Chelsea scoring in every game and PSG averaging over two goals per match—a bet on both teams to score offers value at around -110. The over 2.5 goals market is also appealing, considering PSG’s attacking consistency and Chelsea’s transitional threat, with odds typically around 1.8.
For higher-risk options, a correct score bet on PSG winning 2-1 or 3-1 provides solid returns, reflecting the predicted tight but goal-filled contest. Player-specific markets favor PSG’s Ousmane Dembele to score or assist, given his recent form, with odds around 2.5, while Cole Palmer remains a dangerous anytime goalscorer option for Chelsea at approximately 3.0. A same-game parlay combining PSG to win and over 1.5 goals could enhance returns for confident bettors.