DOHA, Qatar – CF Pachuca secured their place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final by defeating Al Ahly FC 6-5 on penalties after both teams played to a goalless draw during the match held on Saturday at Stadium 974.
The reigning Concacaf Champions Cup winners demonstrated resilience as they faced off against their African counterparts, struggling to net any goals throughout regular and extra time. Despite having several attacking opportunities, it was Pachuca's goalkeeper, Carlos Moreno, who emerged as the star of the match with key saves at significant moments, including one decisive penalty stop during the shootout.
The match got underway with both teams determined to take early control. It was the 13th minute when Moreno first showcased his remarkable skills, denying Taher Mohamed’s long-range shot with solid reflexes. Al Ahly dominated possession initially, with Oussama Idrissi attempting to create scoring chances for Pachuca. His efforts included working his way through the defense for a shot, which was blocked by Omar Kamal.
Despite trailing with fewer good chances early on, Pachuca's offense began to find its footing. They could not capitalize, as another attempt from Idrissi soared off target. With the clock ticking down, Moreno's heroics continued, including a punch to maintain the scoreline at 0-0 at halftime.
After the break, substitutions aimed to boost Pachuca’s offensive play were made, with Nelson Deossa coming on and taking shots, but nothing penetrated Al Ahly's defense. Both teams remained resolute, resulting in no goals through full time and pushing the match to extra periods.
Even extra time could not break the deadlock, even as both teams fought hard for supremacy. Moreno was tested multiple times, but his performance consistently denied any breakthrough from Al Ahly's attackers, including Mohamed Afsha and Kahraba.
Then came the dramatic penalty shootout after 120 minutes of uneventful football. Pachuca started on the wrong foot, with Salomón Rondón’s effort and Borja Bastón’s attempt both failing. The situation appeared dire for the Mexican team. But everything pivoted when Moreno saved Mahmoud Kahraba's penalty, allowing Pachuca to rally and strike six consecutive successful kicks afterward.
Faber Gil's decisive kick put Pachuca at 6-5 before Khaled Abdelfattah's attempt hit the bar, sending the Pachuca players and their supporters wild with jubilation.
“It was difficult, very complicated, especially because of the marathon game we played today,” said Pachuca's coach Guillermo Almada following the triumph. He acknowledged the challenge they faced and expressed confidence as the team prepares for their final match against Real Madrid on Wednesday at the Lusail Stadium.
Pedro Pedraza, a key midfielder for Pachuca, remarked on their confidence throughout the match: “Confidence is the last thing to die, we had confidence in our team, the players who were going to score, and Carlos, who became the star, he deserved it.” His sentiments highlight Mochuca's reliance on teamwork and individual performances to advance.
Pachuca's remarkable achievement marks only the second time a CONCACAF team has reached the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final, following their successful run as the Concacaf Champions Cup victors. Historically, the Mexican side boasts prominent FIFA competition appearances, with their best finish being third place at the 2017 Club World Cup. Their constituents are eager as they prepare to challenge the most prolific Intercontinental Cup winners, Real Madrid, who have hoisted the trophy five times.
With momentum on their side and unwavering support from their fans, Pachuca aims to bring home the Intercontinental Cup, but they know they have a formidable opponent waiting for them. Excitement builds as they gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating final match.
