Was the Club World Cup Final More Super Bowl Than Soccer?

The 2023 Club World Cup final between Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) at New Jersey's MetLife Stadium felt more like a Super Bowl spectacle than a traditional soccer match. The event, packed with celebrity appearances, military displays, and high-energy performances, captivated fans worldwide, though it left some soccer purists scratching their heads.

A Star-Studded Build-Up

The pre-match festivities were nothing short of extravagant. A military color guard, a dramatic flyover, and a performance by Robbie Williams set the stage, all in the presence of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The game itself kicked off eight minutes late, at 20:08 BST, after a series of dazzling displays. Chelsea went on to deliver a stunning 3-0 victory over PSG, but the off-field spectacle was equally noteworthy.

Half-Time Extravaganza

The half-time show, a first for FIFA, featured Coldplay’s Chris Martin alongside artists J Balvin, Doja Cat, and Tems. The high-tech stage, built above the stadium’s upper tier, required six semi-trucks to transport 40,000 pounds of equipment. The elaborate performance delayed the second half by 24 minutes, leaving players waiting on the pitch.

Celebrity Sightings and Security

Celebrities like film director Spike Lee, pop star Rita Ora, and former Emir of Qatar Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani graced the red carpet. Trump, seated alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, briefly commented on the match, calling it a "tremendous sport." Heightened security, including U.S. Secret Service snipers, was in place, given the final fell on the anniversary of an assassination attempt on Trump.

Post-Match Drama and Awards

After the final whistle, tensions flared on the pitch, but the focus soon shifted to the awards ceremony. Trump and Infantino presented trophies to standout players, including Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, who scored twice in the final. Chelsea captain Reece James lifted the Club World Cup trophy, which, inspired by the periodic table and Voyager space probes, was already "open" for the occasion.

The 2023 Club World Cup final will be remembered not just for Chelsea’s dominance but for its bold blend of soccer and entertainment, raising the question: Was this a soccer match or a Super Bowl-style spectacle?