In football, and sports in general, there are extraordinary stories, and the tale of Pachuca in the Intercontinental Cup is undoubtedly one of them. Guillermo Almada’s team just delivered the tournament’s biggest surprise, overcoming less-than-ideal conditions for the Liga MX representative.

Facing Botafogo in the Americas Derby

Awaiting them in the Americas Derby was Botafogo, champion of the Copa Libertadores and the Brasileirão, gearing up for a potential clash with Real Madrid in the grand final. However, the Tuzos stood in their way, delivering a masterclass to secure a ticket to the semifinals of the tournament.

How Long Has It Been Since Pachuca Played?

It had been 32 days, just over a month, since Pachuca played a competitive match. Their last game was against FC Juárez on November 9, during which they suffered a loss that left them as the third-worst team in the Liga MX tournament standings.

Pachuca’s Stunning Performance Against Botafogo

The Mexican team understood the timing and nature of the match and, most importantly, the caliber of their opponent. They struck once, twice, and then a third time to seal a 3-0 victory.

• Dutchman Oussama Idrissi scored in the 50th minute.

• Colombian Nelson Deossa followed up in the 66th.

• Finally, Venezuelan Salomón Rondón sealed the deal in the 80th.

Al-Ahly Await in the Semifinal

“We have to take it step by step,” said Guillermo Almada when asked about Real Madrid, the European champion already waiting in the Intercontinental Cup Final.

Pachuca will face Al-Ahly, the African CAF Champions League winner and Egyptian powerhouse with 12 titles to its name, in the semifinal.