Chelsea’s Playbook: How to Defeat PSG in the Champions League – Tips for Success

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) often feels predictable. Their games start with a kick deep into the opponent’s zone, leading to a familiar pattern of PSG controlling play and usually winning. Whether in Ligue 1 or the Champions League, other teams often set up low defenses to counter PSG’s attacking style. However, this strategy rarely stops PSG’s talented forwards.

In 2025, PSG has lost only three matches, two of which were in the league after they had already won the title. The focus had shifted to winning their first European title. Yet, trying to contain a team as skilled as PSG is a challenge that often ends in failure.

Chelsea broke this trend, surprising everyone with a fresh approach. Their intense, high-pressure style put PSG on the defensive right from the start. Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca noted that winning early set the tone for their eventual 3-0 victory.

Chelsea didn’t dominate possession—only 33%—but their focus was on disrupting PSG’s plays and limiting their dangerous players, like Ousmane Dembélé and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Their press pushed PSG back, preventing them from settling into a rhythm.

Luis Enrique, PSG’s manager, admitted his team struggled. “Chelsea showed they are a good team,” he said. That day, PSG couldn’t match Chelsea’s energy without the ball. The lack of intensity led to defensive mistakes. For example, Kvaratskhelia’s hesitance contributed to Chelsea’s third goal.

PSG’s weaknesses became evident. Nuno Mendes, usually a top defender, showed vulnerability against long balls. Lucas Beraldo, filling in for an injured teammate, was also targeted. Chelsea took advantage of these gaps, leading to all three of their goals.

Several factors likely contributed to PSG’s loss. They’ve had a long season with over 65 games, and the heat in New Jersey didn’t help. Chelsea had slightly more time to prepare, adding to the challenge for PSG.

Luis Enrique did not make excuses. He recognized Chelsea’s deserved victory. “We fell, but the true loser is the one who doesn’t get back up,” he remarked.

So, have Chelsea found a way to beat PSG? Other teams may learn to be more assertive rather than passively defending. However, in Ligue 1, most teams can’t match PSG’s quality, as they enjoy an unprecedented financial advantage. PSG is the only club thriving despite the rest of the league’s struggles, having earned €116 million from their recent tournament run.

While PSG gears up for an active transfer window, Ligue 1 rivals have spent only €160 million this summer, mostly on players who were already on loan last season. Though some flaws in PSG were exposed, it’s clear the gap in quality in French football remains large.

For those keeping an eye on football trends, PSG’s recent loss could signal that even dominant teams can be challenged, and the way Chelsea played might inspire others on the European stage.

For more insights on football in France, check out Get French Football News.

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