December 16 – Mexico’s Pachuca will play Real Madrid in the final of the Intercontinental Cup after defeating Egypt’s Al Ahly in a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
In the previous round, the Concacaf champions had eliminated Botafogo of Brazil 3-0, but they were never able to impose themselves against the African champions. After a stalemate and extra time, the Mexicans missed their first two penalties but ultimately came good to clinch the penalty shootout 6-5 and a ticket for the final.
After a close first half, the match opened up a little and both Idrissi and Nelson Deossa forced fine saves from the Al Ahly goalkeeper.
The introduction of South Africa Percy Tau brought some much-needed impetus to the Egyptian side’s game and, clean through, Mahmoud Kahraba should have decided the tie late into extra time.
“It was difficult, very complicated, especially because of the marathon game we played today,” said Pachuca coach Guillermo Almada. “We’ll try to get the players back on their feet and go into the game [final] with all the motivation in the world.”
“We were prepared for that and more,” said Pedro Pedraza. “I don’t think there’s a team that trains harder than us. We had practically lost everything, but trust is the last thing to die, and we trusted our squad, the players who were going to take the shots, and Carlos (Moreno), who became a key figure and truly deserved it. Thanks to him, we became champions.
“It’s a dream, not just for us, but for the institution, the fans, and our families. We are going to face it in the best way possible.”
On Wednesday, Qatar National Day, the tournament culminates with the final at Lusail Stadium. Real Madrid are automatic entrants to the final under the new Intercontinental Cup format. At next year’s Club World Cup in the United States, the two clubs will also face each other in Group H.
Contact the writer of this story, Nick Webster, at moc.l1734823002labto1734823002ofdlr1734823002owedi1734823002sni@o1734823002fni1734823002