Real Madrid have done it again! The European champions added another title to their historic collection by triumphing over Mexico's Pachuca with an impressive 3-0 victory at the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, held at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2024. With 67,249 fans filling the stadium, the atmosphere was electric as the Spanish giants showcased their football prowess.
The match marked the return of Kylian Mbappe, who only recently recovered from injury. The French superstar wasted no time making his presence felt, scoring the opening goal at the 37th minute after being set up exquisitely by Vinicius Junior. Vinicius had just claimed the FIFA Player of the Year award, eleving his profile even higher before taking to the pitch.
Rodrygo was next to get his name on the scoresheet, doubling the lead for Real Madrid just after the break. Scoring from the edge of the box, his well-placed shot came after yet another clever assist from Vinicius. Each of these moments spoke volumes about the chemistry among Madrid's attacking trio.
Mbappe played exceptionally well, showcasing quick touches and excellent off-the-ball movement, reminiscent of his standout performance during the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. He was pivotal to the team's strategy and had effectively become their focal point. He was substituted for Brahim Diaz at the 62nd minute, having contributed significantly during his time on the pitch.
The icing on the cake came late on when Vinicius successfully converted from the penalty spot. This opportunity arose after Lucas Vazquez was fouled by Pachuca’s Oussama Idrissi, who was penalized following VAR scrutiny. This penalty goal not only sealed the 3-0 victory but also capped off what was already a stellar performance.
While Pachuca may not have grasped the trophy, they left the tournament with their heads held high, having claimed the Derby of the Americas and the FIFA Challenger Cup lead-up to the final. Their path to the tournament showcased impressive victories against Brazil’s Botafogo and Egypt’s Al Ahly, reflecting their capacity as formidable competitors on the global stage.
For Real Madrid, this victory signifies their fourth title of the year, adding to their already impressive accolades from the UEFA Champions League, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup. More history was made with Carlo Ancelotti becoming the all-time most successful manager of Real Madrid, winning his 15th title with the club—surpassing celebrated predecessor Miguel Munoz, who managed the team to 14 titles from 1960-1974.
Reflecting on the match, Ancelotti noted the significance of the win for his players and the entire organization, which continues to strive for excellence. The team’s dominance during the Intercontinental Cup is set to be celebrated, with many fans delighted by their return to form after some last-minute struggles.
Looking to the future, Real Madrid will face Pachuca again at next year's Club World Cup, along with formidable opponents such as Al Hilal, featuring superstar Neymar, and Red Bull Salzburg. Expecting their skills to be tested yet again, the team is already reigniting discussions about their ambitions to remain on top.
With the La Liga season approaching its conclusion, Real Madrid will take on Sevilla, the final match of the year. Following this, Ancelotti's squad will return to the Middle East for the four-team Spanish Super Cup, scheduled to take place early January. Each match serves as another stepping stone toward asserting their quality and dominance on the pitch.
Real Madrid's latest Intercontinental Cup victory embodies not just the depth of talent present within the squad, but the relentless pursuit of greatness—a trait deeply embedded within the club’s rich history. The legacy of success continues to thrive with every match played and every trophy lifted.
