Under the scorching California sun, where temperatures reached 30°C, Paris Saint-Germain delivered a statement performance. Just 15 days after lifting the UEFA Champions League trophy, Luis Enrique’s side thrashed Atletico Madrid 4-0 in the Club World Cup 2025, proving they are not just champions of Europe—but also masters of adaptation.
Adapting to the Heat: PSG Switch Tactics and Still Dominate
In a match that demanded more than just technical brilliance, PSG showcased their tactical flexibility. Ditching their usual high-press, high-tempo style, they slowed things down—focusing on measured possession to outwit both the heat and their opponents.
The result was complete control: 817 successful passes compared to Atletico’s mere 275. It wasn’t just domination—it was suffocation. Atletico were chasing shadows all night as PSG dictated the rhythm with calm precision.
“It was a tough environment,” admitted Portuguese midfielder Vitinha. “But it was much harder for Atletico—because they had to chase us all over the pitch.” Vitinha often dropped deep to initiate buildup, allowing full-backs Nuno Mendes and Hakimi to stretch the flanks and create width.
The ‘Slow Possession’ Strategy That Crushed Atletico
Luis Enrique’s “slow possession” game was brilliantly executed. Instead of chasing the game, PSG controlled it with surgical precision. Only one long pass was played for every 16 short passes, and they attempted just 10 crosses—prioritizing close-knit play and keeping the structure tight.
The payoff? Atletico Madrid were only able to register three interceptions throughout the entire match—a staggering sign of PSG’s control and spatial discipline.
Patient Build-Up, Ruthless Execution
The opening goal was vintage Enrique: a sequence that began by forcing Jan Oblak into a long clearance, which PSG recovered, leading to nearly a minute of continuous possession before Fabian Ruiz buried a stunning long-range strike.
Senny Mayulu, PSG’s breakout star from the Champions League final, came off the bench and continued to impress with his intelligent movement and spatial awareness.
South Korean playmaker Lee Kang-in sealed the win from the penalty spot, showcasing PSG’s squad depth. Even without Ousmane Dembélé in a false-nine role, PSG’s attacking variations remained fluid and dangerous.
PSG’s New Way to Defend: With the Ball
According to data from SkillCorner, PSG covered the least distance of any top-five European league side last season. But that doesn’t mean they were passive—instead, they defended by keeping the ball.
“They live with the ball,” said Cesar Azpilicueta before the match. “When you lose it against them, it feels like an eternity before you see it again.”
Enrique’s philosophy is clear: starve the opponent of possession, reduce their chances, and keep full control of the narrative.
Post-Champions League PSG: A Team Still Evolving
After securing their long-awaited Champions League title, many wondered what’s next for PSG. Luis Enrique’s response? “This is a new chapter where we must continue proving we can grow.”
And this dominant 4-0 win over Atletico was proof of just that. It wasn’t just a result—it was a display of tactical maturity and strategic brilliance. With emerging talents like Mayulu and Doue blending seamlessly with experienced names like Donnarumma and Fabian Ruiz, PSG now look like the complete package.
They are no longer just a squad built on financial muscle—they’re a finely tuned football machine, capable of thriving in any condition, anywhere in the world.
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