Impeccable since stepping in for Lucas Chevalier, Matvey Safonov crowned his rise with a monumental performance in the Intercontinental Cup final, stopping four consecutive penalties against Flamengo and delivering PSG their sixth trophy of 2025.
Safonov, the Hero of the Night
Despite Chevalier’s return from injury, Luis Enrique once again trusted Safonov between the posts for Wednesday’s final in Doha. The decision proved decisive. In a dramatic penalty shootout, the Russian goalkeeper became the undisputed hero, producing a performance rarely seen at this level.
Stopping four penalties in a row — something never before achieved by a PSG goalkeeper — Safonov single-handedly swung the final in Paris’ favor and sealed a historic triumph.
Seizing His Chance
Initially expected to spend the season as a backup following Chevalier’s arrival, Safonov was thrown into the spotlight after the French goalkeeper’s injury. Since then, he has taken his opportunity with authority. Solid against Rennes days earlier, he elevated his level once again on the biggest stage.
For long stretches, PSG were in control after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s opening goal late in the first half. But defensive mistakes — including an error by Warren Zaïre-Emery and a foul by Marquinhos inside the box — allowed Flamengo back into the match, forcing extra time and eventually penalties.
A Wall When It Mattered Most
As PSG pushed relentlessly late in extra time, it felt inevitable that the final would be decided from the spot — and that the pressure could turn against Paris. Instead, Safonov delivered a masterclass.
Calm, explosive, and decisive, he denied four straight Flamengo attempts. Despite protests from the Brazilian side regarding early movement off his line, the refereeing decisions stood, and Safonov’s performance remained unquestionable.
A Turning Point in the Goalkeeper Hierarchy?
Beyond the trophy, the evening may mark a decisive moment in PSG’s goalkeeping hierarchy. Chevalier, watching from the sidelines, could hardly hide his disappointment during the celebrations — an understandable reaction given the circumstances.
Luis Enrique is known for loyalty and balance, particularly toward players he personally targeted in the transfer market. Yet, after a performance of this magnitude, benching Safonov will not be an easy decision.
Whether this final represents a temporary high point or a lasting shift remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Safonov is no longer just an alternative — he is now a serious contender for the No.1 spot at PSG.