SAEDNEWS: PSG vs. Flamengo: European Powerhouse Takes on South American Giants for Global Glory
The dominant forces of Europe and South America collide at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Wednesday as UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain face Copa Libertadores champions Flamengo in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final. This match marks the first competitive meeting between the two sides.
PSG arrives in Doha aiming to cap a stellar 2025 campaign that saw them secure four titles, including a resounding 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the European final.
Flamengo, meanwhile, enters the final on a historic high, having completed a rare double by winning both the Copa Libertadores and the Brazilian Serie A.
With both teams eager to add a global trophy to their cabinets, this final promises a fascinating clash of styles and footballing cultures.
Match Information
Date: Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Kick-off: 17:00 GMT / 12:00 ET / 09:00 PT
Venue: Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, Al-Rayyan, Qatar
Live Broadcast: DAZN (Global, USA/Canada)
PSG: Enrique’s Men Chase Fifth Title of the Year
Under Luis Enrique, PSG has enjoyed a dominant year, sweeping domestic honors in France (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, Trophée des Champions) and conquering Europe. Yet, they arrive in Qatar with something to prove internationally after losing the Club World Cup final earlier in the year to Chelsea.
As European champions, PSG received a bye to the final, giving key players like Bradley Barcola, João Neves, and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia a chance to rest in their recent 3-2 Ligue 1 win over Metz. A victory here would secure a historic fifth trophy of the year, solidifying this era of dominance.
Flamengo: Battle-Hardened and Ready to Upset
Flamengo’s path to the final has been challenging but impressive. Unlike PSG, the Brazilian side had to navigate earlier rounds, defeating Mexican side Cruz Azul 2-1 in the Derby of the Americas and African champions Pyramids FC 2-0 in the Challenger Cup.
Guided by Filipe Luís, whose playing career gave him significant European experience, Flamengo combines South American flair with tactical discipline. With a massive traveling support and momentum from recent victories, they aim to emulate their legendary 1981 Intercontinental triumph.
Coaches’ Corner & Key Notes
Enrique’s Defensive Headache: PSG manager Luis Enrique faces selection issues in defense. Right-back Achraf Hakimi (ankle) and captain Marquinhos (hip) are unavailable, likely prompting a reshuffle with Willian Pacho and either Lucas Beraldo or Ilya Zabarnyi stepping in. On the positive side, rested attackers return to the starting XI.
Filipe Luís’s European Mentality: Flamengo’s coach has instilled what sporting director José Boto calls a “European mentality” in his squad. With a fully fit team—except midfielder Allan, who did not travel—Flamengo benefits from players with European pedigree like Danilo, Alex Sandro, and Jorginho, crucial for matching PSG’s intensity.
Player to Watch: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
The Georgian winger has been a standout for PSG this season. After resting in the league, his ability to break down well-organized defenses will be key against Flamengo.
Injury Updates
PSG: Achraf Hakimi (ankle – out), Marquinhos (hip – out), Ousmane Dembélé (illness – doubtful)
Flamengo: Allan (not in squad)
Probable Lineups
PSG (4-3-3): Chevalier – Zaire-Emery – Zabarnyi – Pacho – Mendes – Neves – Vitinha – Ruiz – Barcola – Mayulu – Kvaratskhelia
Flamengo (4-2-3-1): Rossi – Varela – Danilo – Pereira – Sandro – Pulgar – Jorginho – Carrascal – Arrascaeta – Everton – Plata
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
PSG: W – D – W – L – W
Flamengo: W – W – D – W – W
Comparative Context (2025 Achievements)
Statistic | PSG (UEFA) | Flamengo (CONMEBOL) |
|---|---|---|
Continental Status | Champions League Winners | Copa Libertadores Winners |
Domestic League | Ligue 1 Winners | Brasileirão Winners |
Route to Final | Bye (Auto-qualification) | W vs Cruz Azul, W vs Pyramids |
Major 2025 Titles | 4 | 2 |
Key Absence | Marquinhos | Allan |
Manager Experience | Luis Enrique | Filipe Luís |
Match Analysis
The final presents a classic “attack vs. defense” storyline. PSG’s attack, led by Kvaratskhelia and Barcola, has been lethal, demonstrated by their five-goal hauls against Rennes and Tottenham. However, absences in defense create vulnerabilities Flamengo will aim to exploit.
Flamengo brings momentum and match sharpness, having already won two high-stakes matches in Qatar. While PSG may boast superior individual quality, Flamengo’s cohesive approach under Filipe Luís and PSG’s defensive reshuffle level the playing field.
The midfield battle could prove decisive, with Vitinha and Neves needing to control tempo against the aggressive press of Pulgar and Jorginho.
