New Delhi: Real Madrid lifted the Intercontinental Cup in Qatar with a convincing 3-0 victory over Mexican side Pachuca at the Lusail Stadium. Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr were the stars of the night, ensuring the Champions League winners added another trophy to their collection.
Pachuca started brightly, testing Madrid’s defence with quick counter-attacks. However, the Spanish giants took the lead in the 37th minute. A brilliant team move began with Jude Bellingham finding Vinicius Jr.
The Brazilian skipped past the goalkeeper and set up Mbappe for an easy tap-in. The Frenchman’s goal returned memories of his hat-trick at the same venue during the 2022 World Cup final.
🏆 INTERCONTINENTAL CUP CHAMPIONS! 🏆#WorldCham9ions | #FIFAIntercontinentalCup pic.twitter.com/3i0AUgT6mI
— Real Madrid CF (@realmadrid) December 18, 2024
Madrid doubled their lead just seven minutes into the second half. Rodrygo danced past two defenders at the edge of the box before curling a stunning shot into the top corner. Despite a brief check for offside involving Bellingham, the goal stood, and Madrid tightened their grip on the match.
Pachuca captain Salomon Rondon came close to reducing the deficit, but Thibaut Courtois denied his free-kick with a fine save. Rondon’s header moments later also missed the mark, leaving Pachuca frustrated.
Vinicius Jr sealed the win in the 83rd minute from the penalty spot after Oussama Idrissi fouled Lucas Vazquez inside the box. The Brazilian calmly converted, adding his 14th goal of the season and putting the match beyond doubt.
This triumph marks Madrid’s dominance in global competitions, with the Intercontinental Cup adding to their impressive trophy haul. Pachuca, despite their spirited performance, struggled to keep pace with the European champions. Madrid will now focus on maintaining this form as they chase more silverware in the months ahead.
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