Matvey Safonov emerged as Paris Saint-Germain’s unlikely hero, securing their historic FIFA Intercontinental Cup triumph against Flamengo. The 26-year-old goalkeeper, serving as deputy to Lucas Chevalier following Gianluigi Donnarumma’s exit to Manchester City, produced a legendary penalty shootout performance. Safonov saved an astonishing four spot-kicks from Saul, Pedro, Leo Pereira, and Luiz Araujo, ensuring victory after a tense final.
Born in Krasnodar, Russia, Safonov joined PSG in July 2024 for €20 million. Despite making only his fourth appearance of the 2025/26 season, having debuted just weeks earlier against Rennes, the tall shot-stopper displayed nerves of steel. While teammates Dembélé and Barcola missed, conversions by Vitinha and Nuno Mendes proved sufficient thanks to Safonov’s heroics.
Wearing number 39, the former Russian Premier League MVP has already amassed a prestigious trophy cabinet, including the Champions League. His decisive display in this global showpiece firmly cements his hero legacy despite his reserve status.