In an exciting eight-goal finale, Real Madrid defeated Al-Hilal to win the FIFA Club World Cup for a record-breaking fifth time in Rabat. Vinicius Jr and Federico Valverde gave Real Madrid a 2-0 lead, but Moussa Marega gave Al-Hilal some hope. However, Vinicius set up Karim Benzema’s goal to make it 3-1. Valverde added another goal, and Luciano Vietto and Vinicius both scored as well, making it 5-3. Vietto scored again, but Al-Hilal was unable to come back.
This victory adds to Real Madrid’s four previous Club World Cup wins from 2014 to 2018, and keeps the European teams’ winning streak in the tournament alive, as they have now won the last 10 editions. Real Madrid defeated Egyptian side Al Ahly in the semi-finals 4-1, which is where the European champions typically enter the tournament.
Al-Hilal, managed by former Oxford United coach Ramon Diaz, became the first Saudi team to reach the final after defeating the Brazilian team Flamengo in the semi-finals. Despite Vietto’s two goals, Al-Hilal could not become the first Asian team to lift the trophy.
Last year’s champions, Chelsea, were not able to defend their title as only the reigning continental champions and the host country’s champions are invited to participate.
FIFA intends to change the tournament format from June 2025, featuring 32 teams and taking place every four years.