Islamabad, Dec 19: Real Madrid added another prestigious title to their collection by winning the Intercontinental Cup with a commanding 3-0 victory over Mexico’s Pachuca at Lusail Stadium in Qatar.
Goals from Kylian Mbappé, Rodrygo, and Vinícius Júnior secured the European champions’ triumph in a match that displayed their dominance.
The final was largely one-sided, with Real Madrid controlling the pace of the game and rarely being challenged. Though Pachuca attempted a few counterattacks, Madrid’s solid defense and composed midfield ensured they remained in control throughout.
The first goal came in the 37th minute from a well-executed team move. Jude Bellingham started the attack with a pass to Vinícius, who evaded Pachuca’s goalkeeper and selflessly laid the ball off for Mbappé to score. Early in the second half,
Rodrygo extended Madrid’s lead with a brilliant solo effort. The victory was sealed in the 83rd minute when Vinícius, named the World’s Best Player, converted a penalty after Oussama Idrissi fouled Madrid captain Lucas Vázquez in the box. Vinícius calmly slotted the ball past the goalkeeper to secure the win.
With this Intercontinental Cup victory, Real Madrid now boasts nine international titles, including three from the original Intercontinental Cup and five from the Club World Cup. The win also marked a milestone for Carlo Ancelotti, who became Real Madrid’s most decorated manager, having accumulated an impressive array of trophies over his two terms at the club.
