Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) secured their place in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field in Seattle. The local team ended their tournament with three losses but showed determination in front of their home fans.
PSG, coached by Luis Enrique, finished first in Group B with six points, tying with Botafogo but advancing due to a superior goal difference. The French champions are set to face Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, if Miami finishes second in their group.
Seattle started the match with high intensity and pressing, trying to challenge the European champions early on. However, PSG gradually took control of possession and dictated the pace of the game. The opening goal came in the 35th minute almost by chance: a long-range shot by Vitinha deflected off Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, wrong-footing Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Frei.
In the second half, PSG dominated and sealed the victory in the 66th minute with a swift counterattack finished by Achraf Hakimi. The goal came courtesy of an assist from Barcola, underscoring PSG’s clear superiority.
Despite the defeat, Seattle Sounders displayed courage and offensive effort throughout the group stage, buoyed by a large and passionate crowd. However, their lack of experience and finishing prevented them from earning points.
For PSG, this win was a valuable confidence boost and game rhythm, although they will need to raise their intensity if they want to confirm their status as one of the tournament favorites moving forward.
