All Goals & Highlights: Real Madrid vs Pachuca FIFA Intercontinental Cup
GOAL Mbappé vs Pachuca 1-0
Real Madrid secured the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2024 title with a commanding 3-0 victory over Mexican side Pachuca at Lusail Stadium in Qatar. The Spanish giants, led by Carlo Ancelotti, showcased their dominance with goals from Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Vinícius Jr., adding another prestigious trophy to their illustrious collection.
FULL-TIME: 🇪🇸 Real Madrid 3-0 Pachuca 🇲🇽
⚽️ K. Mbappé 37′
⚽️ Rodrygo 53′
⚽️ Vinícius Jr. 84′ (Pen.)REAL MADRID CLAIM THE INTERCONTINENTAL CUP TITLE! 🏆✨#RealMadrid #FIFAIntercontinentalCup pic.twitter.com/eSDNTVZRHv
— Match Spoots (@matchspoots) December 18, 2024
A Historic Night for Real Madrid
The FIFA Intercontinental Cup final was a highly anticipated clash, with Real Madrid entering as UEFA Champions League winners and Pachuca representing CONCACAF as Champions Cup victors. The match marked an opportunity for Madrid to claim their fourth Intercontinental Cup title, further cementing their legacy as one of the most successful clubs in football history.
Carlo Ancelotti, already a legendary figure at the club, achieved a personal milestone by becoming Real Madrid’s most decorated coach with 15 trophies. This victory also highlighted the team’s ability to perform on the global stage, reinforcing their reputation as a powerhouse in international football.
Dominance from the Start
From the opening whistle, Real Madrid controlled the game with their trademark attacking flair. Kylian Mbappé, returning from a recent injury, opened the scoring in the 18th minute with a clinical finish. His goal set the tone for the match, as Madrid’s relentless pressure kept Pachuca on the back foot.
Rodrygo doubled the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot the ball past Pachuca’s goalkeeper. The Brazilian forward’s composure in front of goal demonstrated why he remains a key player for the Spanish side.
Vinícius Jr. Seals the Victory
In the second half, Pachuca attempted to mount a comeback but struggled to break through Madrid’s solid defense, marshaled by Antonio Rüdiger and Aurélien Tchouaméni. Vinícius Jr. put the game beyond doubt in the 75th minute with a stunning solo effort, weaving past defenders before firing into the top corner.
The Brazilian winger’s performance earned him widespread praise, as he continues to establish himself as one of the best players in the world. His goal was the perfect way to cap off a dominant display by Real Madrid.
What This Win Means for Real Madrid
This victory not only adds another trophy to Real Madrid’s cabinet but also serves as a statement of intent ahead of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. The team’s ability to perform under pressure and deliver on the biggest stage is a testament to their quality and depth.
For Pachuca, reaching the final was a significant achievement, showcasing the growing competitiveness of CONCACAF teams on the global stage. Despite the loss, their journey to the final will inspire other clubs in the region to aim higher.
