Russian octopus for Paris glory: PSG claim Intercontinental Cup in penalty drama

Paris Saint-Germain continued to cement their status as one of the most dominant teams in world football with a dramatic Intercontinental Cup victory over Copa Libertadores winners Flamengo at the Ali Stadium in Doha. The triumph marks PSG's sixth trophy of the calendar year, placing them among the elite clubs historically defined by Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and Hansi Flick's Bayern Munich.

The hero of the night was Matvey Safonov, the unlikely savior in the dramatic penalty shootout. Having started only three matches this season and previously rumored to be leaving after the arrival of Ilya Zabarnyi, the Russian goalkeeper stole the show, saving four spot-kicks from Saul Niguez, Pedro, Leo Pereira, and Luis Araujo to secure a 2-1 shootout win after a 1-1 draw in regulation.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia opened the scoring seven minutes before half-time, before the former Arsenal and Chelsea star Jorginho equalised from the spot after the break.

There was nothing to separate the sides in the rest of normal time and 30 minutes of extra time, before PSG defeated the Copa Libertadores winners on penalties thanks to the goalkeeping heroics of Safonov.

Flamengo, who came agonizingly close to ending Europe's hold on the competition - a streak dating back to 2012 - were left to rue missed opportunities. Brazilian goalkeeper Agustin Rossi had a night of highs and lows, notably allowing a dangerous Khvicha shot to slip through before VAR intervention ruled out an earlier PSG goal. Pulgar and De Arrascaeta repeatedly threatened, but PSG's defence held firm, with the key moments often dictated by Safonov's composure.

A critical penalty for Flamengo punctuated the game after Marquinhos fouled De Arrascaeta, allowing Jorginho to score and equalise. Yet even in extra time, despite fresh threats from Ousmane Dembele and Bradley Barcola, Flamengo could not find a decisive breakthrough, sending the contest to penalties where Safonov's brilliance ultimately defined the outcome.

With this victory, PSG not only secured another trophy for their trophy-laden year but also reinforced European clubs' dominance on the global stage. For Safonov, the night marked a personal milestone and a reminder that heroes can emerge when least expected.

INTERCONTINENTAL CUP

PSG - Flamengo 2-1 on penalties (1-1)

/Khvicha 38 - Jorginho 62/