Pachuca has just delivered a stunning upset by eliminating Botafogo, the Copa Libertadores champion, from contention in the Intercontinental Cup. This victory opens the possibility of seeing the Mexican team face Real Madrid.

Next Challenge for Pachuca: Al-Ahly in the Semifinals

Pachuca, representing CONCACAF, will now face the African confederation’s representative in the Challenger Cup.

"Step by step," said Guillermo Almada when asked about the potential matchup with Real Madrid, the reigning European champion awaiting in the Intercontinental Cup Final. Pachuca’s semifinal opponent is Al-Ahly, the CAF Champions League winner from Egypt, who claimed their 12th title.

To reach the highly anticipated clash with Real Madrid, Pachuca must win this semifinal, which introduces a new trophy along the way.

Pachuca’s Long Break Before Facing Botafogo

It had been 32 days—over a month—since Pachuca last played a competitive match. Their previous game was against FC Juárez on November 9, a loss that left them as the third-to-last team in Liga MX.

Pachuca vs. Botafogo: A Stunning Victory

Pachuca displayed excellent game management and took advantage of their opportunities against the South American powerhouse. Goals from Dutchman Oussama Idrissi (50’), Colombian Nelson Deossa (66’), and Venezuelan Salomón Rondón (80’) secured an emphatic 3-0 victory for the Mexican side.

The win keeps Pachuca’s dreams alive as they prepare for the next step in their journey through the Intercontinental Cup.