The atmosphere surrounding the Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain resembled the grandeur of the Super Bowl more than a traditional football match. The anticipation leading up to Sunday's showdown at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey was vibrant and perhaps a bit perplexing for those unfamiliar with American-style sports entertainment.
The pre-match festivities included a military color guard, a dramatic flyover, and a performance by Robbie Williams, all in the presence of US President Donald Trump. These events delayed the match's start to 20:08 BST, eight minutes past the scheduled kick-off time.
'Let's get ready to rumble… finally'
The pre-match ceremony was divided into three segments. It began with a 'countdown to the final,' featuring a drumming display and an enormous inflatable model of the Club World Cup trophy. Williams and pop star Laura Pausini then performed FIFA's new official anthem, Desire.
The tribute to the tournament hosts followed, which included the US national anthem, a color guard, a military flyover, and a spectacular fireworks display. As the players entered the pitch, American ring announcer Michael Buffer delivered his famous "let's get ready to rumble!" line, a staple throughout the competition.
Notable figures such as American director Spike Lee, former Emir of Qatar Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, pop star Rita Ora, and President Trump made their entrance on a red carpet laid out for celebrities, former players, and politicians.
'Tremendous sport'
FIFA's inaugural half-time show was a colorful spectacle featuring performances by Coldplay's Chris Martin, J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems on a high-tech stage suspended above the arena. This setup, involving 40,000 pounds of equipment, was constructed to avoid damaging the pitch.
The elaborate show delayed the second half's start, with PSG's players waiting on the field while Chelsea's team re-emerged shortly after. The match resumed 24 minutes after the half-time whistle, but not before Trump briefly shared his enthusiasm for the event with DAZN reporter Emily Austin, stating, "I'm having a really great time. Tremendous sport."
Heightened security at MetLife Stadium
President Trump, alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, observed the match under tight security. This was heightened due to the anniversary of an assassination attempt on Trump, with the United States Secret Service and snipers stationed around the stadium.
BBC Sport's Nizaar Kinsella noted the increased security measures, stating it took twice as long to reach his position due to stringent checks. Official sources were hesitant to confirm rumors of an interview with Trump, which was hinted at during half-time and later aired in full post-match.
Trump in close proximity during trophy lift
The post-match events were lively, with a brief altercation between players after the final whistle. Once calm was restored, Trump and Infantino presented the awards. Real Madrid's Gonzalo Garcia received the top scorer prize, PSG's Desire Doue was named young player of the tournament, Chelsea's Robert Sanchez earned the golden glove, and Cole Palmer was honored as the player of the tournament.
Finally, Trump and Infantino presented the Club World Cup trophy to Chelsea captain Reece James. The trophy, inspired by the periodic table and historic golden records sent into space, was already in its 'open' position, ready for James to lift it into the sky as Chelsea celebrated their victory nearly three hours after kick-off.