Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer delivered a stunning performance, guiding his team to triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup final. The young English star scored two goals and assisted another in Chelsea’s dominant 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain. Held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at East Rutherford, New Jersey, the match cemented Chelsea’s place as world champions. Yet, beyond the on-field heroics and trophy celebrations, a unique moment stole some of the spotlight: Palmer’s surprise at sharing the victory podium with former U.S. President Donald Trump. This unexpected appearance added an unusual footnote to a memorable night for the London club and its burgeoning star.
Palmer’s Masterclass: Goals, Glory, and the Golden Ball
Cole Palmer was nothing short of sensational in the Club World Cup final. His contribution was pivotal, directly leading to all three goals against a formidable PSG side. Palmer opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a precise left-footed strike from just inside the penalty area. This goal was significant, breaking PSG’s impressive streak of 436 minutes without conceding.
Just eight minutes later, in the 30th minute, Palmer doubled Chelsea’s lead. Receiving a well-placed long ball from defender Levi Colwill, he expertly cut inside and fired another left-footed shot into the net. This marked his 18th goal of a highly productive season. Showing his versatility, Palmer then turned provider in the 43rd minute. He delivered a perfectly weighted through pass to João Pedro, who skillfully chipped PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to seal the 3-0 scoreline before halftime.
Palmer’s incredible performance earned him the Player of the Match award for the final. His overall impact across the tournament was even more impressive, leading to him being awarded the prestigious Golden Ball trophy as the best player of the entire competition.
A Season of Stunning Form
This Club World Cup final display wasn’t an isolated event for the 23-year-old. Cole Palmer has been in remarkable form throughout 2025. He previously shone in Chelsea’s Europa Conference League final victory on May 28, providing two assists in a 4-1 win against Real Betis. His knack for big moments was also evident in the Club World Cup quarterfinal, where he scored Chelsea’s first goal in a tense 2-1 win over Palmeiras. On the international stage, Palmer netted England’s goal in their 2024 European Championship final defeat to Spain. His consistent ability to deliver in crucial games underscores his growing importance for both club and country.
The Unexpected Guest on the Podium
Amidst the joyous celebrations as Chelsea players gathered to receive the Club World Cup trophy, an unusual figure joined the lineup: former U.S. President Donald Trump. Standing alongside Chelsea captain Reece James, goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, and Cole Palmer himself, Trump was present as the trophy was presented.
Palmer later admitted he was surprised by this. “I knew he was going to be here,” Palmer commented, referring to Trump’s attendance at the match. “But I didn’t know he was going to be on the stand when we lifted the trophy, so I was a bit confused.” The presence of a former head of state on a sports awards podium is certainly not a common occurrence, adding a layer of unexpected spectacle to the event. Reports also indicated that Trump, who called the match “a great match,” appeared to receive a medal from FIFA President Gianni Infantino shortly after the official trophy presentation to the team.
A Rising Profile Beyond the Pitch
Cole Palmer’s escalating status in the football world is becoming increasingly apparent. His stellar performances have led to recognition off the pitch as well. He was recently featured in a prominent Nike advertising campaign alongside global football superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Vinícius Júnior.
Billboards showcasing Palmer’s image, emblazoned with the slogan “Scary Good,” appeared in iconic locations such as Times Square and near Madison Square Garden in New York. Palmer reflected on seeing himself featured so prominently. “I’ve seen the billboards in Times Square and outside of Madison Square Garden,” he said. “It’s a nice feeling to be obviously alongside them type of players.” This marketing push highlights just how quickly Palmer has transitioned from a promising talent to a recognized elite player in the sport.
Tactical Triumph: Maresca’s Game Plan
Chelsea’s victory wasn’t just down to individual brilliance; it was also a result of sound tactical planning. Manager Enzo Maresca’s strategy for the final proved highly effective. Maresca revealed that the game plan focused on aggressively attacking from the outset. He wanted his players to exploit space on PSG’s left flank, a perceived weakness.
“I think we won the game in the first 10 minutes,” Maresca stated. His message to the players before the match was clear: “Let them understand that we are here to win the game.” This assertive approach aimed to set the tone early and disrupt PSG’s rhythm. The strategy paid off almost immediately, with Chelsea creating chances and applying pressure that led directly to their opening goal.
The first goal sequence exemplifies this. Goalkeeper Robert Sánchez’s long kick downfield put immediate pressure on PSG. A mis-hit header by Nuno Mendes inadvertently sent the ball back towards his own goal. Although Malo Gusto’s subsequent shot was blocked, the rebound fell perfectly to Palmer, who finished clinically. Maresca acknowledged Palmer’s crucial role in such important fixtures. “These are the games where we expect Cole to appear,” Maresca commented, “because they are big games, big moments.” Palmer himself praised the tactical approach, noting that the manager “put a great gameplan out, and obviously, he knew where the space was going to be.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Cole Palmer’s specific contributions to Chelsea’s Club World Cup win?
Cole Palmer was the standout player in Chelsea’s 3-0 Club World Cup final win over PSG on July 13, 2025. He scored the first two goals for Chelsea, one in the 22nd minute and another in the 30th minute. He also provided the assist for the third goal, scored by João Pedro in the 43rd minute. For his exceptional performances throughout the tournament, Palmer was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player. He was also named Player of the Match for the final itself.
Where did the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final take place?
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain was held in East Rutherford, New Jersey. While the specific stadium wasn’t explicitly named in all reports, photographs accompanying the original article indicate the match took place at MetLife Stadium. This American venue hosted the prestigious global club football event.
Why was Donald Trump on the podium at the Club World Cup final?
Former U.S. President Donald Trump attended the FIFA Club World Cup final between Chelsea and PSG in East Rutherford, NJ. He later joined the trophy presentation podium alongside the Chelsea players and officials. According to the article, Palmer knew Trump would be at the match but was “a bit confused” to see him on the stand during the trophy lift. Trump was present as Chelsea captain Reece James received the trophy and appeared to receive a medal himself from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Trump had previously described the match as “a great match.”
A Defining Moment for Palmer and Chelsea
Winning the FIFA Club World Cup is a significant achievement for Chelsea, adding another major trophy to their cabinet. The 3-0 scoreline against a strong Paris Saint-Germain side demonstrates a commanding performance from Enzo Maresca’s team. At the heart of this success was Cole Palmer, who delivered a performance befitting a player quickly rising to the pinnacle of the sport. His goals, assist, and individual awards underscore his talent and crucial importance to Chelsea. While the unexpected presence of Donald Trump on the podium added a surreal element to the celebrations, it was Cole Palmer’s brilliance on the pitch that truly defined Chelsea’s night as world champions. His ability to perform under pressure in consecutive finals highlights his potential to become one of football’s elite players for years to come.
