This Wednesday evening at 5:00 PM (GMT), Real Madrid faces Mexican club Pachuca at the Lusail Stadium in Doha to win the Intercontinental Cup, the former version of the FIFA Club World Cup. The Madrileños, with an exceptional record, aim for their ninth world title and a new trophy to crown an already remarkable 2024 year.
Real Madrid has the opportunity to end the 2024 year with a new trophy, their second this season. The Madrileños arrive at this Intercontinental Cup final against Pachuca with renewed confidence boosted by their recent exploits. As reigning European champions, they have already won four major trophies this year: the Champions League, the European Super Cup, La Liga, and the Spanish Super Cup.
Carlo Ancelotti doesn't hide his desire to further inscribe himself in the club's history. A win tonight would allow the Italian to become the most successful coach in Real Madrid's history, surpassing all the legendary figures who preceded him.
On the other side, Pachuca doesn't intend to be intimidated by Real Madrid's aura. Although their current ranking in the Mexican championship (16th place) is unflattering, the Mexicans have shone throughout this Intercontinental Cup. They first eliminated Al Ahly in the semifinals after a grueling penalty shootout. Before that, they convincingly defeated Botafogo, the Copa Libertadores winner, with a 3-0 score.
Pachuca's players approach this final with a conquering mindset, fully aware of the magnitude of the task awaiting them against the Madrid giant. Their coach stated, "We're ready to give it our all and make our fans proud."
For Real Madrid, this final is an opportunity to consolidate their status as the king of world football and secure a second trophy this season. With stars like Jude Bellingham, VinÃcius Jr, and Mbappé, the Madrileños have the necessary firepower to make a difference.
Here is Real Madrid's official lineup against Pachuca:
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois
Defense: Vazquez, Rüdiger, Tchouameni, Garcia
Midfield: Valverde, Camavinga, Bellingham
Attack: VinÃcius Jr, Mbappé, Rodrygo