Why Chelsea Might Just Pull Off Another Final Shock
Despite being underdogs, Chelsea have the structure, experience, and mentality to shock PSG in the Club World Cup final.
Let’s not pretend Chelsea are favorites — they’re not. But that hasn’t stopped them before.
Enzo Maresca took charge in July 2024 and has already delivered the UEFA Conference League title, instilling a structured, data-driven style centered on youth and pressing.
Chelsea also thrive under pressure. Their knockout discipline, shape, and counterattack prowess were decisive in their 2021 Champions League-winning run — and that mentality has endured under Maresca. They’ve continued that form this summer, reaching the FIFA Club World Cup final and comfortably dispatching Fluminense en route.
On the talent front, Roméo Lavia and Christopher Nkunku offer fresh attacking options — Nkunku remains dangerous in big games, while Lavia brings energy and tenacity in midfield. At full-back, Malo Gusto and Levi Colwill provide pace and aggression capable of stretching PSG’s defense.
Let’s not forget the mental edge: Chelsea have repeatedly pulled off the improbable at critical moments — PSG? Not so much.
Yes, PSG boast a star-studded squad, but Chelsea have the plan, the manager, and a hungry, youthful core capable of defying expectations. That might just be enough.