Overview
As the reigning Champions League champions, Real Madrid has been given a special place in the 2024 Intercontinental final. The "White Vultures" opponent in the final match is Pachuca, a team from Mexico.
To reach the final against Real Madrid, the North American champions defeated South American champions Botafogo and African champions Al Ahly.
Pachuca and Real Madrid will also be opponents in the group stage of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Therefore, this is an opportunity for both teams to get to know each other before the tournament.
Pachuca's only advantage in the upcoming match is that they have had more time to get used to and play in Qatar than Real Madrid. They have played 2 matches in Qatar and have somewhat adapted to the climate. Meanwhile, the La Liga champions have only had a few days to prepare and get used to it.
However, the difference in class between the two teams is still very clear. Real Madrid brought almost their best squad to Qatar. Kylian Mbappe, although not fully recovered, was also on the registration list, alongside Eder Militao and Carvajal.
This is the first time the two teams have met in history. In terms of form, Real Madrid is not really stable but their class is unquestionable. Meanwhile, Pachuca has 2 losses and 3 wins in the last 5 matches.
Facing a classy and experienced opponent like Real Madrid, it is clear that Pachuca has very little chance to create a surprise.
Human resources situation
The injury to experienced defender Sergio Barreto will be a big blow for Pachuca. In addition, the home team is almost fully available for this match.
On the other side of the front line, Mbappe is still open to playing in this match. Meanwhile, midfielder Tchouameni will likely continue to replace Militao in the center-back position.
Expected lineup:
Pachuca: Moreno, Cabral, Gonzalez, Rodriguez, Micolta, Pedraza, Arturo, Bautista, Montiel, Idrissi, Rondon.
Real Madrid: Courtois, Garcia, Rudiger, Tchouameni, Vazquez, Bellingham, Modric, Valverde, Mbappe, Vinicius, Rodrygo.
The match between Real Madrid and Pachuca takes place at 0:00 a.m. on December 19 (Vietnam time).
