By Samuel Akpan/agency report
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) produced a stunning performance to thrash Real Madrid 4-0 in the Club World Cup semifinal, setting up a showdown with Chelsea in the final.
The French champions were ruthless in their execution, capitalizing on Real’s mistakes to take a commanding lead within nine minutes.
Ousmane Dembele scored one and set up another as PSG’s attack was relentless, leaving Real Madrid’s defense struggling to cope.
Fabian Ruiz’s clinical finish doubled PSG’s lead, and the team’s confidence grew as the match progressed.
Real Madrid, despite boasting a star-studded lineup, looked disjointed and unable to contain PSG’s attacking flair.
The loss marked a disappointing end to Luka Modric’s illustrious career with Real Madrid, with the Croatian legend playing just 25 minutes in the match.
Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid’s coach, acknowledged that his team still has work to do to build cohesion and consistency.
“We want to build a team that plays as a unit,” Alonso said. “We were one match away from the final, and it was painful. Let’s see what happens now.”
The European champions victory was a testament to their team’s strength and depth.
Luis Enrique’s side has been impressive in the Club World Cup, and they will be confident of adding the trophy to their collection.
“We are in a special moment, and we have to win,” Enrique said.
“We are going to try against a good team like Chelsea. Now it’s time for us to prepare and recover. We are almost there. We want to make history with our club and then go on holiday.”
Chelsea, who will face PSG in the final, will need to be at their best to stop the French champions. Enzo Maresca’s side will be without Moises Caicedo, who is nursing an ankle injury, and they will need to find a way to contain PSG’s attacking threat.
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