Fabián Ruiz Anchors PSG’s Midfield in Club World Cup Statement Win Over Atlético

In a match filled with standout performances, Fabián Ruiz rose above the rest as Paris Saint-Germain’s midfield general, guiding his side to a resounding 4–0 win over Atlético Madrid in their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup opener. The Spanish international was instrumental from start to finish, opening the scoring with a stunning long-range strike and anchoring PSG’s midfield with vision, composure, and leadership.

Played in front of 80,619 fans at the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, the game was billed as a clash of styles. Instead, it became a showcase of PSG’s tactical dominance, driven by Ruiz’s brilliance in the middle of the park.

Opening Goal Sets the Tone

Ruiz opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a moment of real quality. Picking up a loose ball just outside the box, he unleashed a curling left-footed strike into the bottom corner, leaving Atlético goalkeeper Jan Oblak with no chance. The goal shifted the momentum instantly and put the Spanish side on the back foot early.

“That early goal was very important,” said Ruiz in the post-match interview.

“We wanted to start the tournament with intensity, and that gave us the confidence to keep pushing forward.”

It was not just the finish, but the timing and confidence that set the tone for what followed.

Dictating the Game

Ruiz played in a slightly deeper role alongside Vitinha, acting as a link between PSG’s defense and attack. His ball retention under pressure and intelligent movement allowed PSG to dominate possession — ending the match with 75% control of the ball.

Key stats:

• 1 goal 
• 94% pass accuracy 
• 6 successful long balls 
• 4 interceptions 
• 8 ball recoveries 

His ability to switch play and find forward runners was crucial in stretching Atlético’s compact shape. Whether building from the back or initiating quick transitions, Ruiz ensured the game flowed through him.

Defensive Composure and Tactical Clarity

While often praised for his technical and creative output, Ruiz also showed his defensive quality. He intercepted passes, tracked runners, and frequently dropped into the defensive line to aid in PSG’s buildup structure.

In contrast to Atlético’s unraveling defensive shape — particularly after Clément Lenglet’s red card in the 78th minute — Ruiz remained composed and disciplined. His calm presence under pressure helped PSG control the tempo even as they turned the screw late in the match.

Trusted by Luis Enrique

Under manager Luis Enrique, Ruiz has become a central figure in a system that prioritizes intelligent positioning, quick ball circulation, and spatial awareness. The trust between coach and player — both Spanish nationals — is evident in how Ruiz is deployed with freedom to create and control.

This tactical maturity, coupled with experience from his Napoli and international tenure, makes him one of PSG’s most valuable assets in the tournament.

Sharing the Spotlight with Vitinha

While Vitinha also scored and impressed with energy and press resistance, Ruiz’s leadership, defensive contribution, and game-opening strike arguably made him the most complete performer on the pitch. Together, the duo dictated midfield dominance that Atlético could not match.

Looking Ahead

With this result, PSG top Group B and next face Botafogo in what could be the match that seals a place in the quarterfinals. For Ruiz, another performance of this standard would cement his role not just as a key midfielder, but as a tournament standout.