Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) made history last night in Doha, Qatar, by clinching their first ever Intercontinental Cup, courtesy of a spectacular performance from goalkeeper Matvei Safonov. The French giants faced South American champions Flamengo in a tense final that ended 1–1 after 90 minutes and extra time. The match was ultimately decided by a dramatic penalty shoot-out, in which Safonov proved the hero, saving four penalties and ensuring a 2–1 shoot-out victory.
Safonov’s remarkable display of bravery and composure proved decisive, handing PSG their first global trophy. The triumph also marks the club’s sixth major title of 2025, following previous successes in the French Super Cup, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, UEFA Champions League, and UEFA Super Cup under the guidance of coach Luis Enrique. Until now, PSG had come close to global glory, finishing as runners-up in the FIFA Club World Cup after losing to Chelsea.
The final itself was a gripping contest. PSG took the lead in the 38th minute through Khicha Kvaratskhelia, only for Flamengo to equalise in the 62nd minute with a penalty from Jorginho. With neither side able to find a winner during regular or extra time, the match went to penalties, where PSG ultimately emerged victorious.
Following the triumph, PSG midfielder Vitinha praised both teams’ efforts: “Flamengo are an outstanding and highly competitive side. We approached this match with complete commitment and gave everything on the pitch. We fought to win, but in the end, it took the penalties to secure our victory.”
The Intercontinental Cup is a FIFA-organised tournament, recently reintroduced with a new format. It features champions from six continental confederations. While the European champions enter the competition directly at the final stage, other continental winners progress through various qualifying rounds. The tournament was first held in Qatar in 2024, replacing the previous knockout-style Club World Cup (2005–23). In that inaugural edition, Real Madrid defeated Mexico’s Pachuca to lift the trophy.
This year’s final saw Europe’s champions PSG face South America’s finest, Flamengo, in a thrilling showdown. Safonov’s heroics not only decided the match but also etched his name into PSG’s history, as the club celebrated its first ever global crown.
Key Match Details:
| Event | Minute | Team | Player / Notes |
| PSG goal | 38 | PSG | Khicha Kvaratskhelia |
| Flamengo equaliser | 62 | Flamengo | Jorginho (Penalty) |
| Penalty shoot-out | – | PSG | 2–1 victory; Safonov saved 4 penalties |
| PSG major titles 2025 | – | PSG | Ligue 1, French Super Cup, Coupe de France, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, Intercontinental Cup |