In the stands of MetLife Stadium, New Jersey on 13/7, former US President Donald Trump garnered significant attention. But on the field, Palmer was the true star.
Maresca's contribution cannot be overlooked. The Italian coach's tactical plan paved the way for Palmer's two goals and an assist for Joao Pedro, securing Chelsea's victory in the first half.
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Palmer scores, opening the scoring in Chelsea's 3-0 victory over PSG in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA on 13/7. Photo: AFP |
Palmer scores, opening the scoring in Chelsea's 3-0 victory over PSG in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA on 13/7. Photo: AFP
The Englishman's ample space on the right wing wasn't accidental. Maresca had devised a clear plan to disrupt PSG's formidable midfield trio.
Vitinha was tasked with marking Enzo Fernandez, while Fabian Ruiz and Joao Neves focused on Reece James and Moises Caicedo. This approach fragmented PSG's midfield, allowing Chelsea to transition into a one-on-one system.
Furthermore, Chelsea's right-back, Malo Gusto, frequently pushed forward, forcing PSG's left-back, Nuno Mendes, to retreat. This created an overload on Chelsea's right flank, providing Palmer with ideal opportunities.
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Cole Palmer poses with the trophy and the best player award at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Photo: Chelsea FC |
Cole Palmer poses with the trophy and the best player award at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Photo: Chelsea FC
Under Maresca, Chelsea typically prioritizes possession-based football and build-up play from the back. However, facing immense pressure from PSG, the Italian coach adapted, allowing his players to adopt a more direct style, readily playing long balls to Palmer, especially on the right flank.
This tactic proved highly effective, with PSG unable to respond in time. Coach Luis Enrique made no significant adjustments, and with the score at 3-0, the game was effectively decided.
"This demonstrates Maresca's meticulous tactical preparation and exploitation of PSG's weaknesses, while Palmer, with his intelligent movement and clinical finishing, became Chelsea's most potent weapon," Sportmail commented.
Another notable decision was Maresca's unconventional choice to give 82 million USD signing Joao Pedro an opportunity. The Brazilian forward signed with Chelsea on 2/7, debuted on 5/7, scored a brace in the semi-final on 8/7, and is now a world champion.
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Joao Pedro chips the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma, sealing a 3-0 victory against PSG. Photo: Sportsphoto |
Joao Pedro chips the ball over Gianluigi Donnarumma, sealing a 3-0 victory against PSG. Photo: Sportsphoto
Maresca's team will not hold a victory parade in London after winning the FIFA Club World Cup. Instead, they will begin a three-week break before reassembling for pre-season training. Chelsea will kick off the 2025-2026 Premier League season by hosting Crystal Palace on 17/8.
While they may not be at peak fitness compared to their rivals at the start of the new season, Chelsea hopes the tactical advantage that helped them overcome PSG will continue to pay dividends.
Hong Duy (According to Daily Mail)
