Matvey Safonov emerged as the undeniable hero in PSG's FIFA Intercontinental Cup triumph this Wednesday. The 26-year-old Russian goalkeeper produced a decisive display, saving an incredible four penalties in the final against Flamengo, proving instrumental in securing the French club's unprecedented title.

Operating as a reserve for Paris Saint-Germain, Safonov found himself thrust into prominence following a series of squad changes. With Gianluigi Donnarumma's departure to Manchester City and the subsequent arrival of Lucas Chevalier from Lille, the Russian was elevated to the role of second-choice goalkeeper for the Parisian giants. However, when presented with the opportunity, he performed exceptionally.

Matvey Yevgenyevich Safonov, born in Krasnodar, Russia, on February 25, 1999, is the 1.91-meter tall shot-stopper who now plies his trade for PSG. Having risen through the ranks of Krasnodar's academy, the club he represented prior to his move to PSG, he had already forged a formidable reputation in Russian football, culminating in him being named the best goalkeeper in the Russian Premier League for the 2023/24 season.

His inaugural start of the 2025/26 season arrived on December 6, as PSG emphatically dispatched Rennes 5-0. Following this, Safonov featured in just two additional fixtures before the intercontinental showpiece: a goalless draw against Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League and a 3-2 victory over Metz last Saturday. Remarkably, the final against Flamengo represented only the goalkeeper's fourth game of the season.

During the decisive penalty shootout, Safonov heroically denied efforts from Saul, Pedro, Leo Pereira, and Luiz Araujo. For PSG, Vitinha and Nuno Mendes converted their spot-kicks, though Dembele and Barcola failed to find the net. Conversely, for the 'Rubro-Negro' side, only De La Cruz managed to convert his attempt.

Safonov dons the No. 39 shirt for Paris Saint-Germain, having been secured in July 2024 for €20 million. Despite his role as a reserve, the goalkeeper already boasts an impressive array of silverware with the French club, including the Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, UEFA Super Cup, Trophee des Champions, and now the coveted FIFA Intercontinental Cup, solidifying his unexpected status as an unlikely hero of the Parisian season.

M. Safonov

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