Paris Saint-Germain’s season just hit a new high last night in Doha 🏆. On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, backup keeper Matvei Safonov emerged as the ultimate hero, saving four straight penalties to help PSG beat Flamengo 2-1 after a 1-1 draw in extra time and lift the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
It was a wild shootout that saw only three of nine spot kicks find the net. Safonov pulled off jaw-dropping stops against Saul Ñíguez, Pedro, Leo Pereira and Luiz Araújo – and his teammates couldn’t stop celebrating, tossing him into the air after the decisive save! 🎉
This victory caps off a trophy-packed year for the French giants: they’ve already claimed the Trophée des Champions, Ligue 1 title, French Cup, UEFA Champions League and UEFA Super Cup. Now, six trophies in 2025 – talk about a powerhouse season! 🚀
The match itself was a thriller. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia put PSG ahead in the 38th minute, but Marquinhos conceded a spot kick that Jorginho coolly converted in the 62nd for Flamengo, fresh off their Copa Libertadores and Brazilian championship wins. After 120 minutes, it was penalty drama for the ages.
Safonov hadn’t worn PSG’s gloves all season until summer signing Lucas Chevalier picked up an ankle injury at the end of November. With Chevalier on the bench, Safonov stepped in – and now he’s the man of the hour, his breakout performance making global headlines.
PSG stars Vitinha and Nuno Mendes scored in the shootout, while Nicolas de la Cruz netted for Flamengo. Even Best Men’s Player of 2025 Ousmane Dembélé couldn’t convert, joining Bradley Barcola on the list of missed kicks.
For news enthusiasts, business minds, students and travelers alike, PSG’s latest triumph is a reminder: in football, as in life, one moment can change everything. And for Matvei Safonov, last night was that moment of glory! 🌟
Reference(s):
Safonov makes four penalty saves to help PSG win Intercontinental Cup
cgtn.com
