Paris Saint-Germain delivered a commanding performance to defeat Atletico Madrid 4-0 in their FIFA Club World Cup Group B opener at the Rose Bowl on Sunday.
The French giants outclassed their Spanish counterparts with a mix of flair and discipline, while Atletico’s night went from bad to worse with the dismissal of Clément Lenglet in the second half.
The game began with high intensity as PSG quickly found their rhythm. Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a crisp finish after a well-timed pass from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
PSG maintained their momentum and doubled the lead just before halftime, with Vitinha slotting home in first-half stoppage time—again assisted by Kvaratskhelia—leaving Atletico stunned at the break.
Despite a disallowed goal from Julian Alvarez early in the second half—ruled out for a foul by Koke in the buildup—Atletico Madrid couldn’t build on the fleeting moment of hope.
PSG continued to control possession, neutralizing Atletico’s attempts to disrupt their rhythm and exploit any openings.
Atletico’s slim chances of a comeback were extinguished in the 78th minute when defender Clément Lenglet was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for dissent.
Already struggling, Diego Simeone’s side was reduced to ten men, further exposing them to PSG’s attacking pressure.
Seizing the advantage, substitute Senny Mayulu smashed home PSG’s third in the 87th minute after Atletico failed to clear a loose ball.
Moments later, Lee Kang-In completed the rout by converting a penalty in the seventh minute of added time after a VAR check confirmed a handball in the box.
The result leaves PSG in a strong position in Group B, while Atletico Madrid will need a quick recovery to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Meanwhile, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami were held to a goalless draw by Al Ahly in the other Group B fixture.
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