Chelsea's Enzo Maresca Confident Of Upsetting PSG In Club World Cup Final

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Enzo Maresca is optimistic about Chelsea's chances against Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final, despite acknowledging PSG as possibly the world's best team. PSG aims to finish a remarkable season with another trophy, having already secured a domestic treble and their first Champions League title in 2024-25. They have dominated recent knockout matches, winning five consecutive games with an aggregate score of 18-0.

PSG's performance in the Club World Cup has been exceptional, outscoring opponents 10-0 in knockout rounds. Their 16 goals in this tournament match the highest ever scored in a single edition. Their recent 4-0 victory over Real Madrid marked their 48th win since the start of the 2024-25 season, surpassing their previous record of 47 wins set in 2015-16.

Maresca believes his team can secure a second Club World Cup title but stresses the need for strategic play. "I love to play chess and watch chess," Maresca shared with reporters. "Football is like a game of chess; when the rival makes a move, you have to counteract it." He acknowledges PSG as a top team globally but insists every game is unique.

Chelsea plans to maintain their style without altering their approach for this match. Maresca emphasized that while they respect PSG, they are preparing thoroughly to perform at their best. He stated, "We have maximum respect for them... we are here to do our best and try to win the final."

The upcoming clash will be the first between these teams since PSG defeated Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate in the 2015-16 Champions League last 16. Before that encounter, Chelsea had lost only once in six meetings with PSG. However, Luis Enrique's side has recently excelled against English teams.

PSG has faced English opposition eight times in 2025 alone, achieving five victories and two losses in the Champions League this year. They join Reggiana (1978) and Bayer Leverkusen (2002) as non-UK teams playing eight matches against English clubs within a calendar year.

Maresca highlighted past performances where underdogs succeeded against strong teams. Fluminense defeated Inter and reached the Champions League final; Al Hilal overcame Manchester City; Botafogo beat PSG earlier in this competition. Although Chelsea's style differs from Botafogo's, Maresca remains hopeful about their chances.

The anticipation builds as Chelsea prepares to face PSG, aiming for an upset against a formidable opponent. Both teams are ready for what promises to be an intense battle on the field.