In a clash highly anticipated not just for the stakes of the Club World Cup semi-final, but for the narrative woven around Kylian Mbappe facing his former club, Paris Saint-Germain delivered a performance that was both emphatic and undeniably dominant. Despite both teams arriving late to MetLife Stadium due to traffic woes, it was PSG who wasted no time getting down to business, dismantling Real Madrid with a comprehensive 4-0 victory.
The scoreline tells a clear story, but the manner of the win speaks volumes about the current state of affairs for both European giants. PSG, fresh off securing their historic first Champions League title, played with the confidence and cohesion of a side truly at the peak of its powers. Under the guidance of Luis Enrique, they appeared less like a collection of expensive parts and more like a finely tuned machine – a significant evolution from the era often defined by individual brilliance, or perhaps, individualistic tendencies, of the Messi, Neymar, and Mbappe trio.
Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring early, setting the tone for a relentless Parisian attack that capitalized repeatedly on a Real Madrid side that looked, frankly, out of sorts. Ousmane Dembele added to the tally after expertly dispossessing Antonio Rudiger, showcasing a sharpness that belies the pressure of a semi-final. Ruiz then completed his brace barely a quarter into the match, effectively killing the tie before it had truly begun.
For Xabi Alonso`s Real Madrid, this served as a stark reality check. While travel delays and missing players (like the suspended Willian Pacho and Dean Huijsen, and an absent Trent Alexander-Arnold) can offer some context, they don`t fully explain the lack of impact. The tactical shift to a back four appeared uncomfortable, leaving them exposed against PSG`s fluid attack. Even the presence of Kylian Mbappe, making his first start of the tournament, couldn`t ignite a response from the Spanish side. The match highlighted the challenges Alonso faces in integrating new players and systems, and evaluating which tactical setups best suit the squad`s strengths – a back three having appeared more effective earlier in the tournament, despite potential implications for player selection like Rodrygo.
The irony of PSG delivering such a commanding performance against Mbappe`s new team was palpable. It wasn`t just a defeat; it felt like a statement – from PSG that they have moved on and built something arguably more formidable, and perhaps a subtle reminder that even a superstar departure doesn`t halt progress when the collective is strong.
As PSG advances to face Chelsea in the Club World Cup final, aiming for another historic first, Real Madrid is left with valuable, albeit harsh, lessons. This defeat, Alonso`s first significant setback as manager, provides crucial insights into the squad`s depth, tactical flexibility, and the work required to bridge the gap displayed on the pitch. With potential squad changes looming, this match serves as a clear indicator that the evolution of Real Madrid is far from complete.
