Pachuca has secured its place in the Copa Intercontinental Final, setting up a showdown with European champions Real Madrid. This marks the confirmation of two upcoming encounters between the Mexican and Spanish sides.

The Copa Intercontinental Final will take place on December 18 at 12:00 PM ET, 11:00 AM MT, and 8:00 AM PT, airing live on beIN SPORTS.

Why Will Pachuca Face Real Madrid Twice?

The historic 2025 FIFA Club World Cup draw, featuring 32 teams across eight groups, revealed that Pachuca and Real Madrid will also clash in Group G.

Pachuca’s group includes Al-Hilal from Saudi Arabia, Austria’s Salzburg, and Real Madrid. Their group stage match is scheduled for June 22, 2025, at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Mexican Clubs vs. Real Madrid: A Historical Rivalry

Necaxa’s Memorable Victory

In the 2000 FIFA Club World Cup, Necaxa stunned Real Madrid by drawing 1-1 in regulation and securing third place in a penalty shootout. Led by Alex Aguinaga, Necaxa delivered a performance for the ages.

Cruz Azul’s Challenge in 2014

Cruz Azul met Real Madrid in the 2014 Club World Cup semifinals but suffered a 4-0 defeat, with goals from Sergio Ramos, Karim Benzema, Gareth Bale, and Isco. Cruz Azul later lost the third-place match against Auckland City.

America's Encounter in 2016

In the 2016 Club World Cup semifinals, America faced Real Madrid in a closer contest but fell 2-0, with Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo finding the net.

Pachuca’s Opportunity to Make History

As Pachuca prepares for the Copa Intercontinental Final, they aim to equalize the record against Real Madrid, which currently stands at two wins for the Spanish side and one for Mexican clubs. A victory would not only add a prestigious title to their achievements but also make Pachuca the first Mexican club to win the Copa Intercontinental.