PSG goalkeeper Matvei Safonov fractured his hand during a shootout but saved four penalties as Paris Saint-Germain won the Intercontinental Cup.
Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Matvei Safonov suffered a fractured hand during his penalty shootout heroics in the Intercontinental Cup final. The Russian stopper played a decisive role as PSG beat Flamengo 2-1 on penalties. He saved four consecutive spot kicks to secure the club’s first global title. The injury was only discovered after the match.
Safonov was lifted into the air by teammates as PSG celebrated the trophy. The goalkeeper showed no visible signs of discomfort during the shootout. He continued making saves despite the fracture. PSG later confirmed the injury in an official update.
PSG head coach Luis Enrique believes the fracture happened during the shootout itself. He suggested it may have occurred on the third penalty. Safonov made an awkward movement while diving. Despite the injury, he saved the final two penalties.
Luis Enrique praised the goalkeeper’s mentality and resilience. He said the adrenaline allowed Safonov to continue without feeling pain. The coach highlighted the commitment shown by his squad. He described the moment as incredible and difficult to explain.
Safonov was the standout figure in a tense final decided from the spot. PSG and Flamengo were level before penalties were required. The shootout quickly swung in PSG’s favour. Safonov denied four straight Flamengo attempts.
Those saves secured PSG’s first Intercontinental Cup title. It added another trophy to a remarkable year for the club. PSG had already lifted the Champions League earlier in the season. The victory capped a successful global campaign.
Safonov began the season as PSG’s backup goalkeeper. He had not played a single minute before November. His opportunity came after Lucas Chevalier suffered an ankle injury. Chevalier has been sidelined since his last appearance on November 29.
Chevalier was named on the bench for the final against Flamengo. Safonov retained his place between the posts. He justified that decision with a match winning display. His performance may influence future selection choices.
Safonov did not directly address the injury in his immediate reaction. In a video shared on social media, he focused on his mindset. He said he could not be broken regardless of circumstances. The message underlined his determination.
PSG confirmed that Safonov’s condition will be reassessed after three to four weeks. The club has not set a firm return date. Medical evaluations will determine his availability. Further updates are expected in January.
Safonov’s four penalty saves defined the final. Flamengo struggled to convert under pressure. PSG’s players rallied around their goalkeeper after each stop. The shootout ended quickly due to his dominance.
Luis Enrique also received praise for trusting Safonov in a high stakes match. The decision proved decisive. The coach stressed focus and discipline after the win. He played down personal credit.
PSG return to action on Saturday in the Coupe de France. They face fifth tier side Vendée Fontenay. Safonov’s availability for that match remains unclear.
PSG’s next Ligue 1 fixture is scheduled for January 4 against Paris FC. A French Super Cup final against Marseille follows on January 8. Squad rotation may be required if Safonov is sidelined.
