How Did PSG Triumph Over Sounders to Secure Knockout Stage as Group B Leaders?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PSG showcased their dominance with a 2-0 victory.
- Kvaratskhelia and Hakimi were instrumental in securing the win.
- Seattle Sounders exit the tournament after three losses.
- PSG will continue their journey in the knockout stage.
- Botafogo qualified despite a loss, highlighting the importance of goal difference.
Seattle, June 24 (NationPress) Paris Saint-Germain achieved a commanding 2-0 victory against Seattle Sounders FC, ensuring their advancement into the Round of 16 at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
Goals from Kvicha Kvaratskhelia and Achraf Hakimi in each half assured maximum points for the European champions, who topped Group B, outpacing second-placed Botafogo.
The Brazilian side fell to Atletico de Madrid 1-0 in another group match, yet qualified ahead of Diego Simeone's team due to goal difference. The Sounders exit the tournament after losing all three of their matches.
Under the guidance of Luis Enrique, PSG dominated the match early on, controlling possession in Seattle’s defensive area. The game experienced a moment of tension when the Sounders' high press forced an error from Gianluigi Donnarumma. The ball reached Sounders striker Jesus Ferreira, but he shot wide, as reported by FIFA.
Following that, PSG tightened their grip on the match, dictating play and gradually wearing down the brave home side.
PSG broke the deadlock in the 35th minute thanks to a fortunate deflection off Kvaratskhelia. The Georgian redirected a wayward shot from Vitinha, sending the ball past Sounders' goalkeeper Sebastian Frei. After this goal, the match opened up, with both teams eager to find the net before halftime.
In the second half, PSG regained control, maintaining possession and creating opportunities early on.
After a defensive phase, Zaire-Emery won the ball in midfield and delivered a curling pass to Barcola on the left flank. Barcola sped past his defender and, upon reaching the box, squared the ball to an unmarked Hakimi on the opposite side.
The Moroccan international easily slotted it home, extending PSG's lead to 2-0.
Sebastian Frei made several crucial saves in the closing minutes to keep the scoreline respectable.
PSG will be back in action on Sunday, facing the runners-up from Group A in Atlanta.