This is how the Real players celebrate their title. © ANSA / NOUSHAD THEKKAYIL

Real Madrid wins Intercontinental Cup

Champions League winners Real Madrid have won another title in the final spurt of the year, winning the first-ever FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

18 December 2024

From: dpa/det

The team led by superstar Kylian Mbappé comfortably defeated opponents CF Pachuca from Mexico 3-0 in Lusail, Qatar, and has won a fourth title in 2024 after the championship, the Champions League title and the UEFA Super Cup trophy.

Mbappé (37th minute), Rodrygo (53rd) and Vinícius Jr. (84th/penalty) scored the goals for the Whites in the 2022 World Cup final stadium, who showed great efficiency in front of goal. Rodrygo's goal was reviewed by video evidence.

Kylian Mbappe was on the scoresheet. © ANSA / NOUSHAD THEKKAYIL

Although Jude Bellingham was clearly offside when the Brazilian shot, referee Jesús Valenzuela was not bothered by the English star Pachuca keeper Carlos Moreno. The referee explained his decision to the spectators via microphone.

Revenge possible at Club World Cup

The day after he was voted World Footballer of the Year, Vinícius Jr. scored the final goal from the penalty spot. Valenzuela also watched the penalty kick on screen and explained it.

The Intercontinental Cup is the successor competition to the Club World Cup, which is scheduled to take place every four years from 2025 with 32 teams. The premiere edition will take place next summer (June 14 to July 13) in the USA. Real Madrid and Pachuca will meet again on June 22, this time in Charlotte. Red Bull Salzburg and Al Hilal from Saudi Arabia complete Group H. The Intercontinental Cup is planned to take place annually.