CHE 3-0 PSG: Three Key Tactical Decisions Enzo Maresca Made to Outclass PSG

 Chelsea’s commanding 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup final was not just the product of individual brilliance but a showcase of Enzo Maresca’s tactical acumen.

At the MetLife Stadium, Maresca’s game plan dismantled a PSG side that had previously overcome Premier League heavyweights. Here are three decisive tactical moves that shaped Chelsea’s triumph:

1. Giving Cole Palmer a free, roaming role

Maresca’s bold decision to deploy Cole Palmer with freedom to drift centrally and between the lines proved pivotal. Rather than sticking rigidly to the wing, Palmer was allowed to seek out space where PSG’s defensive midfield struggled to contain him. This freedom directly led to his two first-half goals: the first a calm finish from Malo Gusto’s assist, and the second a superb solo effort after twisting through defenders. Palmer’s movement consistently unsettled PSG’s backline, opening gaps for his teammates and setting the tone for Chelsea’s attacking dominance.

2. High and aggressive full-back positioning

Maresca instructed Malo Gusto and Marc Cucurella to push up the pitch aggressively, pinning PSG’s wingers deep into their own half. By forcing Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia to defend, Chelsea blunted two of PSG’s primary attacking outlets. This tactical move paid off as Gusto’s forward run created the opening goal, while Cucurella’s constant overlapping runs helped maintain width and balance. The approach stretched PSG horizontally, limiting their ability to transition effectively and keeping Chelsea firmly on the front foot.

3. Quick vertical transitions to exploit spaces

Recognising PSG’s tendency to commit numbers forward, Maresca focused on rapid vertical passes to turn defence into attack. Chelsea’s third goal captured this perfectly: Palmer collected the ball in midfield and immediately sent João Pedro through on goal, leading to a delicate chip over Gianluigi Donnarumma. This commitment to direct transitions exposed PSG’s high defensive line and left them vulnerable, especially after falling behind.