Real Madrid will take on Mexican side Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup Final on December 18, 2024, at Lusail Iconic Stadium, Qatar, as they aim for their ninth title in this prestigious intercontinental tournament.
This year, the Intercontinental Cup is newly rebranded from the former FIFA Club World Cup, and for Real Madrid, the stakes are high. After clinching the UEFA Champions League title, they have the chance to retain European pride against Pachuca, who became the first Mexican club to reach the final of this competition. Despite finishing 16th out of 18 teams in Liga MX, Pachuca demonstrated impressive resilience, knocking out the Copa Libertadores champions, Botafogo, on their way to this historic match-up.
Real Madrid arrives at this final with mixed fortunes, having recently gone through inconsistent performances. They recorded three wins, one loss, and one draw across their last five matches. Nevertheless, they boast of players like Kylian Mbappe, who has battled injury but is set to make the squad for this significant fixture. Coach Carlo Ancelotti's team is ready to challenge Pachuca with the likes of Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham, reported GOAL.
Pachuca, on the other hand, is seeking to make history against the Spanish giants. They made their way to the final by eliminating strong contenders like Al Ahly and Botafogo, proving doubters wrong. According to Pachuca's coach, Guillermo Almada, "We are excited to face such a prestigious club like Real Madrid." This adds to the narrative of their underdog story.
The match kicks off at noon ET, and fans can catch all the action through various broadcasting services. beIN SPORTS offers live coverage across many regions, and fuboTV provides streaming options, including free trials for viewers in the USA.
With both teams poised to make their mark, betting odds favor Real Madrid at -550, with predictions leaning heavily toward them winning comfortably by at least two goals. Yet, the allure of football lies within its unpredictability, and Pachuca's determination could lead to surprises, making for compelling viewing.
Football fans globally eagerly await the contest, anticipating how Pachuca’s historic appearance will influence the dynamics of this match against one of the most decorated teams on the planet. For Real Madrid, this final is not just another trophy; it is about legacy and maintaining their stature on the world stage.
This Intercontinental Cup promises excitement, drama, and perhaps even historical significance, celebrating the beautiful game and the different cultures it unites.
