Real Madrid will face C.F. Pachuca in the final of the 2024 FIFA Intercontinental Cup. This presents an opportunity for Los Blancos to secure their second trophy of the season, following their UEFA Super Cup victory. The match will be held at Lusail Stadium in Qatar.
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Real Madrid v Pachuca: Match Preview
Real Madrid secured their place in the 2024 FIFA Intercontinental Cup final on June 1, as they defeated Borussia Dortmund 2-0 in the UEFA Champions League final at Wembley. The following day, Pachuca triumphed 3-0 over Columbus Crew in the Concacaf Champions Cup final.
Pachuca’s continental victory earned them a spot in the FIFA Derby of the Americas, but they still had two more matches to win to reach this prestigious tournament. The Mexican side achieved this, first defeating Botafogo 3-0 on December 11, followed by a tense penalty shootout win over Al Ahly after a goalless draw.
While Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who have already claimed the UEFA Super Cup this season and are in the midst of another La Liga title challenge, enter the match as favorites, the unwavering confidence and undeniable talent that has propelled Pachuca to this stage make for an intriguing showdown.
The Jude Bellingham is returning to his outstanding form, having scored seven goals and provided five assists in his last 10 matches. He has become a key player in Carlo Ancelotti’s system. In addition to being an attacking threat, the Englishman also plays an important role defensively.
Arda Güler, the talented Turkish midfielder, has already played more minutes in La Liga this season than he did throughout the entire previous campaign. He heads into this clash on the back of a strong performance, having provided two assists in last weekend’s draw with Rayo Vallecano.
Oussama Idrissi is a key asset for Pachuca. The left winger delivered an outstanding performance against Brazilian side Botafogo. The Moroccan international will be crucial for Pachuca if they hope to pose any threat to the defending UEFA Champions League winners.
Salomón Rondón, the captain extraordinaire, has showcased a blend of top-tier skill and relentless work ethic throughout Pachuca’s campaign in Qatar. He will aim to lead by example and spearhead the attack against Los Merengues.
Carlos Moreno has been crucial to Pachuca’s success, and it’s no exaggeration to say they might not have reached this stage without him. The goalkeeper was outstanding during regular time against Al Ahly and made a pivotal save in the penalty shootout.
Pachuca reached the final despite missing their first two penalties in the shootout against Al Ahly in the FIFA Challenger Cup. Salomón Rondón had his shot saved, and Borja Bastón fired over the bar. However, the Egyptian side also missed two sudden-death penalties, allowing Los Tuzos to make a dramatic comeback and win 6-5.
This will be Real Madrid’s 11th final in a FIFA club competition. They contested five finals in the previous version of the Intercontinental Cup from 1960 to 2002, winning three. Additionally, Los Blancos have reached five FIFA Club World Cup finals, maintaining an impressive 100 percent win record from 2014 to 2022.
This will be the fourth time Real Madrid has faced a Mexican side. In the inaugural Club World Cup in 2000, they lost to Necaxa in a penalty shootout in the third-place play-off. Fourteen years later, they avenged that defeat with a 4-0 victory over Cruz Azul in the final, before beating América 2-0 two years later.
“It means a lot. It means that we won the Champions League last year, and we have to close out the previous season well, which was a very successful season for us and the club. Obviously, it’s also very important for the club to win another international club tournament again, because we have many fans all over the world and they would love to lift the trophy [themselves].” Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid coach.
“All of the work that we have been doing has a great [reward] and it is a big final, to face the biggest team in the world. We hope to come out as champions. It’s a tough game, but we must dream it.” Nelson Deossa, Pachuca midfielder.
“Ever since you are a boy, you dream of these moments [facing Real Madrid], to achieve it is a boyhood dream of mine, it’s an honour. Now, we’re going to give it our all in this final and try to win it.” Bryan Gonzalez, Pachuca defender.
Real Madrid v Pachuca: Head-to-head
This will be the first encounter between Real Madrid and Pachuca.
Real Madrid v Pachuca: Team News and Predicted Lineup
Real Madrid – Team News
Real Madrid will be missing long-term absentees Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy due to their respective injuries. Kylian Mbappé remains a doubt, although he was seen training recently.
Real Madrid – Predicted Lineup (4-3-1-2)
- Goalkeeper – Thibaut Courtois
- Defender – Lucas Vazquez, Aurelien Tchouameni, Antonio Rudiger, Fran Garcia
- Midfielders – Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham
- Forwards – Rodrygo, Vinicius Jr.
Pachuca – Team News
Pachuca have no new injury concerns, with Gustavo Cabral expected to continue in central defense in place of the injured Sergio Barreto.
Pachuca – Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper – Carlos Moreno
- Defender – Bryan Gonzalez, Gustavo Cabral, Luis Rodriguez, Andres Micolta
- Midfielders – Pedro Pedraza, Arturo Gonzalez, Alan Bautista
- Forwards – Elias Montiel, Oussama Idrissi, Salomon Rondon
Real Madrid v Pachuca: Match Prediction
Real Madrid are the clear favorites heading into this clash, with a noticeable difference in individual quality between the two teams. Our match prediction leans towards a Real Madrid victory.
Prediction – Real Madrid 2-0 Pachuca
When and Where to Watch the Match? Broadcast & Streaming Details
Real Madrid will take on Pachuca on Wednesday, December 18, at Lusail Stadium in Qatar. The match is scheduled to kick off at 10:30 PM IST. The game will be streamed live on the FIFA+ app, accessible for free by registering. Fans in India can also watch the match via live stream on the FIFA website.
Read More: Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr. Crowned FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year 2024
FAQs
When and where will the Real Madrid vs. Pachuca match take place?
The match will be held on Wednesday, December 18, at Lusail Stadium in Qatar, starting at 10:30 PM IST.
How can fans watch the match live in India?
The game will be streamed live for free on the FIFA+ app (with registration) and the FIFA website.
Who are the key absentees for Real Madrid?
Dani Carvajal, Éder Militão, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy are out due to injuries, while Kylian Mbappé is doubtful.
Are there any fresh injury concerns for Pachuca?
No, Pachuca has no new injuries, with Gustavo Cabral continuing in defense in place of Sergio Barreto.
What is the match prediction for Real Madrid vs. Pachuca?
Real Madrid are predicted to win 2-0, given their superior individual quality.
