European champions PSG secured their place in the knockout stage of the Club World Cup by topping Group B with a solid 2-0 win against the host team, Seattle Sounders, on Monday.
Kvaratskhelia and Hakimi Goals Secure Victory
The Ligue 1 champions, who faced an unexpected defeat against Botafogo on Friday, secured their place in the last 16 with a victory over Seattle. They found the back of the net in both halves, thanks to goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Achraf Hakimi.
Group B Standings and Knockout Matchups
As a result of their performance, along with Atletico Madrid’s 1-0 win against Botafogo, PSG secured the top spot in Group B, amassing six points from three matches. They are set to clash with the Group A runners-up on Sunday in Atlanta, while Botafogo will face off against the group winner on Saturday in Philadelphia.
João Neves Reacts to PSG’s Advancement
“It’s a great day, and I’m feeling good,” said PSG midfielder Joao Neves. “We’re heading to Atlanta, and we’ll aim to implement our strategy, regardless of who we’re up against.”
Seattle faced a tall order against PSG, as they needed to win by at least 3 goals to have any hope of advancing. Unfortunately, after playing three matches on their home turf, they concluded the Club World Cup without a single victory.
PSG’s Opening Goal: Deflected Breakthrough
PSG made a breakthrough in the 35th minute, just after the ball was cleared away from a corner, landing at the feet of an unmarked Vitinha at the edge of the penalty area. Vitinha’s shot was initially off target, but it ended up in the Seattle Sounders’ net after deflecting off Kvaratskhelia’s back.
Hakimi Seals Win with Clinical Finish
Barcola, a substitute, stormed into the box in the 66′ to increase their advantage. After five Seattle players overcommitted to the challenge, he effortlessly found Hakimi, who was wide open and calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net.
Seattle’s Strong Start Fades
In the first few minutes of the match, Seattle got off to a quick start and had PSG pinned in their own defensive third, but the MLS team missed two early corner kicks.
The ball fell at Obed Vargas feet just beyond the box as Seattle took their first corner. Unfortunately, his attempt went wide, and PSG’s Marquinhos pushed the ball away to safety on the second corner.
Brian Schmetzer on Seattle’s Performance
“It was a solid start,” remarked Seattle coach Brian Schmetzer about his team’s performance. “We knew we had to step up and be prepared to face the top team in Europe, so our players came into the game with a lot of energy and enthusiasm.”
Key Saves and PSG’s Growing Dominance
Desire Doue’s attempt from the right side of the box in the 12th minute nearly gave PSG the lead as they gained control of the match. However, Seattle goalkeeper Stefan Frei was up to the challenge, successfully tipping it over the crossbar.
After the break, Seattle seemed to lose the intensity they had shown earlier in the match, while PSG continued to press forward and highlighted their skill in counter-attacks.
PSG came close to extending their lead in the 60th minute when Hakimi sent in a stunning cross to the far post. Despite his best efforts, Neves was unable to find the back of the net.
Luis Enrique on PSG’s Win and Pitch Conditions
“We pulled off a great win in this match, and I’m pleased,” said PSG manager Luis Enrique. “There are certainly a few adjustments we need to make, but it’s always tricky playing on this kind of pitch.”
“Compared to pitches in EU, these pitches are very different. The grass has a distinct texture, making it challenging to achieve the same smoothness needed for our style of play. However, we have managed to adapt well.”
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