California, June 16 (V7N) — Reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) marked their FIFA Club World Cup debut in emphatic fashion, thrashing Atletico Madrid 4-0 in a one-sided encounter.

The Group B match was held at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in California on Sunday (June 15). Despite the anticipation surrounding a showdown between two European giants, the contest proved to be heavily tilted in PSG’s favor.

PSG, buoyed by their recent UEFA Champions League triumph, asserted control early in the game. Spanish midfielder Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring in the 19th minute, unleashing a powerful low drive from outside the box after receiving a clever back pass from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

The French side doubled their lead just before halftime, as Portuguese midfielder Vitinha found the net in stoppage time, once again assisted by Kvaratskhelia. PSG went into the break with a commanding 2-0 advantage.

Atletico Madrid’s hopes of mounting a comeback were dashed in the 78th minute when defender Clement Lenglet was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for dissent.

Luis Enrique’s side capitalized on their numerical advantage, scoring two more goals in the 87th minute and in stoppage time to complete a resounding 4-0 victory.

PSG will next face Brazilian club Botafogo in their second Group B match on Friday.

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