[Photo by Simon Reza on Unsplash]
17 July, 2025 (Thursday) - By Yoo Jung
Chelsea's 3-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) was well deserved in Gianni Infantino's inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup this Sunday, July 13. But while Chelsea's players were heading home with their victory, the real trophy sat comfortably in the Oval Office in the West Wing of the White House in Washington, D.C.
The Match
Cole Palmer was the standout player in this remarkable win. The England international scored twice and assisted João Pedro. Chelsea dominated European champions PSG at the 80,000-seat MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Palmer opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a low shot. Eight minutes later, he doubled his tally with another low strike from the edge of the box.
The third came just before halftime. Palmer split the PSG defense with a precise pass, allowing Pedro to chip the ball over PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Despite some early chances from PSG, Chelsea was resolute in defense. Chelsea's defense and goalkeeper Robert Sanchez made key saves, including a near-miss from Ousmane Dembélé.
But the match wasn't all about the game. It quickly became a tale of controversy.
The Trophy Drama
Before the showpiece game, Trump told broadcaster DAZN that the real trophy currently sits in the Oval Office. He added that the 24-carat gold trophy– designed by Tiffany & Co. and worth nearly $250,000– was gifted to him by Gianni Infantino, FIFA's president, during a visit in March because FIFA planned to make a new one for Chelsea.
In front of stunned players and an 81,000 crowd, Trump took the stage to hand over the fake trophy. Chelsea’s players appeared confused, especially since they had no idea Trump would still be on stage when they lifted the trophy. Chelsea captain Reece James eventually hoisted the replica. Chelsea later posted on their social media photographs when Trump moved to the background and no longer stood beside the trophy.
Additionally, Trump reportedly walked off with one of the medals from the event as well after the president was given the medal to look at by Mr. Infantino.
Infantino has visited Trump in Washington ten times since January. FIFA also moved its New York office into Trump Tower. This fueled suspicions about the organization's cozy relationship with the former president, which created some skepticism about the organization's transparency.
