Title
Paris Saint-Germain won the Intercontinental Cup thanks to the brilliance of their Russian goalkeeper Matvei Safonov, who saved four decisive penalty kicks, leading the French champion to a 2-1 victory over Brazil’s Flamengo in a shootout, following a 1-1 draw in regulation and extra time. The final match was held on Wednesday evening at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium in Qatar.
Safonov displayed a high level of calmness and composure during the penalty shootout, securing a precious title for his team, which is Paris Saint-Germain’s first Intercontinental Cup trophy.
Paris Saint-Germain took the lead in the first half through Georgian winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in the 38th minute, capitalizing on a well-organized counter-attack, before Giorginho equalized for Flamengo from a penalty kick in the 62nd minute.
A Highly Competitive Match
The encounter witnessed great competitiveness between the two teams, as they exchanged control and created numerous chances. The match showcased the technical and physical strength of Flamengo, who were seeking their third title this year, against the ambition of the French team to continue their exceptional season.
The match extended into extra time after regulation ended in a draw, with both sides having mutual chances, before the penalty shootout decided the encounter in favor of Paris Saint-Germain, marked by Safonov’s outstanding performance.
With this triumph, Paris Saint-Germain has raised its tally to six titles in 2025, during a historic season that included the French League, the French Cup, the Champions Trophy, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Super Cup, and now concludes with the Intercontinental Cup title.
Matvei Safonov
### Key Career Points:
– **Current Club**: As of 2024, he plays for **Krasnodar** in the Russian Premier League and has been a key player for the team.
– **International Career**: Safonov has represented the **Russian national team**, making his senior debut in 2021. He was part of Russia’s squad for UEFA Euro 2020 (held in 2021) and has been a regular call-up since.
– **Youth Career**: He came through the youth academy of Krasnodar and made his first-team debut in 2017.
– **Style**: He is recognized for his athleticism, ability in one-on-one situations, and distribution skills.
### Notable Achievements:
– Helped Krasnodar qualify for European competitions.
– Named in the Russian Premier League’s list of best young players.
### Transfer Interest:
Safonov has attracted attention from clubs in Europe’s top leagues due to his consistent performances, though as of now, he remains with Krasnodar.
Would you like more details about his career statistics, recent performances, or transfer rumors?
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia
### Key Information:
– **Born**: February 12, 2001 (age 23) in Tbilisi, Georgia
– **Height**: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
– **Position**: Left winger / Attacking midfielder
– **Nickname**: “Kvaradona” (a tribute to Napoli legend Diego Maradona)
### Career Highlights:
1. **Early Career**:
– Started at Dinamo Tbilisi, then moved to Rustavi and later Lokomotiv Moscow.
– Gained attention at Rubin Kazan (Russia) before the 2022 invasion of Ukraine led to his departure.
2. **Breakthrough at Napoli**:
– Joined Napoli in July 2022 for a reported €10–12 million.
– Played a starring role in Napoli’s 2022–23 Serie A title win—their first in 33 years.
– Scored 14 goals and provided 17 assists across all competitions in his debut season.
– Named **Serie A MVP** (Most Valuable Player) for 2022–23.
3. **Playing Style**:
– Known for explosive dribbling, creativity, agility, and a powerful right foot.
– Often cuts inside from the left wing to shoot or create chances.
– Praised for his flair, vision, and ability in one-on-one situations.
4. **International Career**:
– Made his debut for Georgia in June 2019.
– Key player in Georgia’s historic qualification for **UEFA Euro 2024**—their first major tournament.
– Scored crucial goals in the qualifying campaign.
### Honors:
– **Napoli**:
– Serie A (2022–23)
– Supercoppa Italiana runner-up (2023)
– **Individual**:
– Serie A MVP (2022–23)
– Serie A Team of the Year (2022–23)
– Georgian Footballer of the Year (2022, 2023)
– UEFA Champions League Young Player of the Season (2022–23) nominee
### Current Status:
Kvaratskhelia remains a vital player for Napoli and a national icon in Georgia. His performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, but as of now, he continues to shine in Naples.
Let me know if you’d like more details on any aspect of his career!
Giorginho
If you have more context—like if it’s from a song, a person, a game, or something else—I can give a more specific answer!
