Seattle Sounders’ final group stage match at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup marks one of the toughest challenges in world football as they welcome Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning UEFA Champions League winners, to Lumen Field on Monday night. With both teams’ fates hanging in the balance, the fixture is should be an intriguing counter with plenty on the line.
The Sounders enter this fixture having competed admirably against some of the world’s top clubs but are still seeking their first positive result of the tournament. After losses to Botafogo and Atletico Madrid, Seattle’s hopes of progression are slim, requiring both a three-goal victory over PSG and a favourable result in the group’s other match to advance. Despite these odds, the team remains focused on producing a performance that reflects their ambition and the support of a home crowd.
Seattle’s midfield, with the likes of Albert Rusnak, Cristian Roldan, and Obed Vargas, has been a bright spot in their campaign. Roldan’s goal against Botafogo and Rusnak’s late strike versus Atletico have shown the group’s ability to compete at this level. However, injuries and off-field distractions, including ongoing contract negotiations and bonus disputes, have challenged the squad’s focus and depth. Head coach Brian Schmetzer has emphasised the importance of finishing the tournament strongly, regardless of the group standings.
The addition of Jesus Ferreira to the attack in 2025 has brought a new dimension, and they'll be hoping he can impact the game here after going scoreless in this competition so far. While defensive injuries have tested the squad, the Sounders’ collective spirit and tactical discipline remain their best assets against elite opposition.
PSG arrive in Seattle with their own group stage ambitions in flux. After a commanding 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid, they suffered a surprise 1-0 defeat to Botafogo, leaving qualification still to be secured. The French champions, managed by Luis Enrique, boast a squad brimming with talent and experience, and will be keen to avoid any slip-up that could jeopardise their passage to the knockout rounds.
Recent months have seen PSG at their clinical best in Europe, culminating in a 5-0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League final. Their Club World Cup campaign began in a similar vein, with a dominant display against Atletico, but the loss to Botafogo has served as a reminder of the competitiveness involved in this tournament.
Names such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Vitinha, and Gianluigi Donnarumma are expected to feature, with PSG likely to name a strong XI in order to secure qualification.
Seattle Sounders 0-3 PSG
