Cole Palmer once again proved that big players show up on the biggest stage, delivering a sensational performance as Chelsea stormed to a 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.
On a scorching afternoon with temperatures soaring past 29 degrees Celsius (85°F), Palmer was the coolest head on the pitch. The 22-year-old forward netted two superb goals within eight minutes in the first half, before setting up Joao Pedro for Chelsea’s third — a performance that earned him the prestigious Golden Ball Award as the tournament’s best player.
Speaking after the game, Palmer expressed his delight at silencing critics who doubted Chelsea’s chances against the European and French champions.
“It’s a great feeling. Even better because everyone doubted us before the game. We knew that. To put on a fight like we did — it’s good,” said Palmer in his post-match interview with DAZN.
Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca, who masterminded the tactical setup, had clearly identified weaknesses in PSG’s defensive structure. According to Palmer, Maresca gave him the freedom to exploit the spaces, a move that paid off handsomely.
“The gaffer put a great game plan out. He knew where the space was going to be. He tried to free me up as much as possible and I just had to repay him by scoring some goals,” Palmer added.
Palmer’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of remarkable. A product of Manchester City’s academy, he broke into the senior team in 2020. However, limited game time at City prompted his switch to Chelsea in search of regular first-team football. That move has since paid dividends.
Since arriving at Stamford Bridge, Palmer has become Chelsea’s talisman. He dazzled in the UEFA Conference League final earlier in the season, scoring in the 4-1 triumph over Real Betis, and continued that fine form in the Club World Cup showdown.
With Manchester City long eliminated from the competition in the round of 16, Palmer seized the global spotlight. His movement down the right flank repeatedly unsettled the PSG defense, and in the 22nd minute, he coolly slotted home a left-footed strike into the bottom-left corner.
Just eight minutes later, he doubled the lead with another crisp finish — same spot, same clinical precision — igniting wild celebrations among Chelsea fans at MetLife Stadium.
GOLDEN BALL: COLE PALMER
The standout star of the tournament.
Goals, class, composure — a champion in every sense.GLOBAL HOME OF FOOTBALL | Live All Summer Long | https://t.co/i0K4eUtwwb | #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld #CHEPSG pic.twitter.com/3ZYDkrdu5L
— DAZN Football (@DAZNFootball) July 13, 2025
Palmer wasn’t done yet. In the 43rd minute, with Chelsea firmly in control, he played a delightful flick to set up Joao Pedro, who lifted the ball over PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma for Chelsea’s third goal.
PSG, who had come into the final riding high on a treble-winning season, looked shell-shocked. Despite boasting stars like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, the French giants were outclassed by a Chelsea side that refused to be intimidated.
After the final whistle, Palmer remained humble, emphasizing his commitment to doing his job every time he steps onto the pitch.
“I just try and do my job every time I go onto the pitch. Hopefully, it can continue,” he said.
Chelsea manager Maresca couldn’t hide his admiration for Palmer, crediting his tactical intelligence and work ethic.
“Today we found a position for him where there was more space to attack. Obviously, Cole played really well, but the effort from all the players was fantastic,” Maresca told reporters.
Golden Ball winner. pic.twitter.com/qNrnOvLCx6
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 13, 2025
This triumph adds another glittering chapter to Palmer’s young career. Having now conquered Europe and the world stage in the same season, his name is firmly etched among football’s rising stars.
Chelsea’s commanding performance also sends a strong message to their rivals — they are back among football’s elite. With Palmer leading the charge, the Blues’ future looks brighter than ever.
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