Backup goalkeeper Matvey Safonov saved four penalties as PSG beat Flamengo in a shootout to win the Intercontinental Cup, securing their sixth trophy of 2025.
Paris Saint-Germain lifted the Intercontinental Cup after beating Flamengo 2-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time. Goalkeeper Matvey Safonov was the decisive figure, saving four consecutive spot kicks. His heroics secured PSG’s sixth trophy of a remarkable 2025.
The final was played at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Qatar in front of 42,150 supporters. As Champions League holders, PSG entered directly at the final stage. Flamengo arrived as Copa Libertadores winners, setting up a clash between continental champions. The South Americans beat Crul Azul and Pyramids on their way to the finals.
PSG dominated possession early and applied steady pressure down the flanks. Lee Kang in and Fabian Ruiz both tested Flamengo’s defensive shape. The breakthrough came in the 38th minute through Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The Georgian winger arrived at the back post to finish Desire Doue’s low cross. It was his ninth goal of the season in all competitions. PSG went into half time with a deserved 1-0 lead.
Flamengo grew into the contest after the break and began to play higher up the pitch. Their equaliser arrived in the 62nd minute from the penalty spot. Jorginho converted calmly after Marquinhos was judged to have fouled Giorgian de Arrascaeta.
The equaliser forced PSG into overdrive mode as French giants tried to re-establish their lead. Luis Enrique turned to his bench for inspiration. Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola were introduced to add urgency to the PSG attacked. Despite late pressure, Agustin Rossi denied PSG a second goal.
Extra time offered few clear openings as fatigue set in. Joao Neves and Dembele both had efforts saved or blocked. Flamengo threatened on the counter but failed to find a decisive touch.
Neither side managed to break the deadlock across the additional 30 minutes. The final was settled by penalties, where Safonov quickly took centre stage.
Safonov saved penalties from Saul Niguez, Pedro, Leo Pereira and Luiz Araujo in succession. Vitinha and Nuno Mendes converted for PSG, enough to clinch the shootout 2-1. Safonov was immediately surrounded by team mates at full time.
Kvaratskhelia remained PSG’s most dangerous outfield player throughout the night. Vitinha controlled midfield phases and showed composure from the spot. For Flamengo, Jorginho’s leadership and penalty conversion stood out in defeat.
The Intercontinental Cup win adds to PSG’s growing list of honours in 2025. They have already secured Ligue 1, the Coupe de France and the Champions League. The Trophee des Champions and UEFA Super Cup are also in the cabinet.
This latest success underlines Luis Enrique’s impact since arriving in Paris. PSG have now matched Real Madrid by winning the Intercontinental Cup in consecutive editions for European champions.
PSG return to domestic action this weekend in the Coupe de France. They face Vendee Fontenay Foot on Saturday evening as they continue their pursuit of another trophy. Squad rotation is expected after a demanding schedule.
Flamengo turn their focus back to domestic commitments following a long season. Despite the defeat, their performance reinforced their status as one of South America’s strongest sides.
