Real Madrid thrashes Pachuca 3-0 to win FIFA Intercontinental Cup

Real Madrid secured a dominant 3-0 victory over Mexican side Pachuca in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar, on Wednesday.

Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring in the first half, tapping in after Vinícius Jr. skillfully bypassed goalkeeper Carlos Moreno.

The venue held special significance for Mbappé, as it was where he netted a historic hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final.

Rodrygo doubled Madrid’s lead early in the second half with a stunning curling shot from the edge of the box.

Despite a VAR review to assess Jude Bellingham’s positioning in an offside spot, the goal stood.

Pachuca captain Salomón Rondón attempted to rally his team, testing Thibaut Courtois with a powerful free-kick and narrowly missing with a header. However, Real Madrid’s defense remained unyielding.

Vinícius Jr., fresh off being crowned FIFA Best Men’s Player of the Year, sealed the win with a penalty after Lucas Vázquez was fouled by Oussama Idrissi.

The inaugural Intercontinental Cup replaced the FIFA Club World Cup, which will return next summer.

The tournament featured winners of five continental club competitions, with Pachuca reaching the final after defeating CAF Champions League holders Al-Ahly.

Real Madrid, as UEFA Champions League winners, entered directly into the final, showcasing their dominance on the global stage.