In a stunning demonstration of strength and skill, Real Madrid defeated Pachuca of Mexico 3-0 on Wednesday to win the Intercontinental Cup in Doha.
The Spanish powerhouses once again showcased why they are regarded as one of the greatest football teams in the world with goals from Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
After bouncing back from a hamstring injury, Kylian Mbappe returned to the starting lineup in spectacular fashion.
He broke the deadlock in the 37th minute from the assist of Vinicius Junior who had shown excellent display to carve out the assist.
The Brazilian sensation proved why he was crowned FIFA`s Best Men`s Player the day before. Mbappe made no errors from close range after he broke through the Pachuca defense.
Rodrygo extended Madrid’s lead at the beginning of the second half with a stunning curling shot from outside the box.
But there was some controversy. Pachuca players claimed that Jude Bellingham was standing in an offside position, and had blocked the goalkeeper’s view.
After VAR check, the referee decided that the goal will stand, leaving Pachuca frustrated and Real Madrid firmly in control.
On the dying hours Lucas Vazquez was fouled inside the box, which led to Real Madrid getting a penalty, then Vinicius Junior converted from the penalty spot in the 84th minute of play to seal the victory for Real Madrid.
Once more, a VAR review was needed to confirm the foul, but the outcome was always clear.
With the confirmation of their victory, Madrid was able to add yet another prestigious trophy to their collection.
Winning the Intercontinental Cup, Real Madrid finished 2024 with five major trophies.
In the previous format which was in use from 1960 to 2004, European champions would compete against South American winners in the inaugural FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
Real Madrid, the European powerhouse, has once again shown their dominance on the international stage.
With the Club World Cup being expanded to 32 teams in 2025, Madrid is already scheduled to face Pachuca again, along with Neymar’s Al Hilal and Red Bull Salzburg.
After playing their final La Liga game against Sevilla on Sunday, Carlo Ancelotti`s team will turn their attention to Saudi Arabia in January for the Spanish Super Cup.
However, for now Real Madrid can celebrate yet another trophy that solidifies their status as one of the greatest football clubs in history.
Madrid`s triumph is another reminder for the football world that why they are the ruling team in football.
When it counts most, this club never fails, whether it is playing in Europe or the world.
With Mbappe, Vinicius, and Rodrygo playing at their peak, Real Madrid is demonstrating once again why they were named the club of the century.