Lusail — Real Madrid’s head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, celebrated a successful conclusion to a stellar 2024 as his team emerged victorious in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, defeating Pachuca 3-0 in the final.
“I am exceedingly pleased; it is entirely appropriate. We executed the actions we had planned, and this proved to be the deciding factor. I am exceedingly pleased with the performance of all players. It was a match that could have caused issues in the middle of the season, but we deservedly won it,” Ancelotti stated following the match, as reported by FIFA.
Goals from Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Vinicius Jr. sealed the victory for Ancelotti’s side, marking the end of a remarkable year for the club, having secured five trophies in total.
“I believe the game was fairly straightforward. We encountered some challenges activating the players in the upper echelon prior to Mbappe’s goal. We began to progress, and those four possess an extraordinary quality. That is what we must do; we must cleanly release the ball and initiate the attack,” Ancelotti added.
This victory also marked a personal milestone for Ancelotti, who secured his 15th championship as a coach. Reflecting on his legendary career, Ancelotti humorously remarked, “I am content, and I am certain that the club is as well, as it is easier to secure titles in this location than in other locations. The caliber of these competitors makes it simpler to emerge victorious. I am exceedingly pleased; I am uncertain as to where my statue will be placed, but they will inform me.”
Real Madrid dominated the evening’s honors, with Vinicius Junior being awarded the Player of the Tournament and the Golden Ball. Fede Valverde also picked up the adidas Silver Ball for his outstanding performance throughout the competition.
Vinicius Jr. added another prestigious award to his collection, being named The Best FIFA Men’s Player for the first time on Tuesday night, in recognition of his exceptional 2023/24 season. He played a pivotal role in Madrid’s Intercontinental Cup victory just a day after receiving that honor.
“These past two days have been nothing short of extraordinary for me,” Vinicius Jr. expressed. “I was awarded the title of the world’s best player yesterday, and today I emerged victorious and was designated the best player of the match.”
Valverde, too, shared his joy at the achievement, stating, “I’m very happy to have received another individual award, which is dedicated to all my people, to my wife, my children, and my parents, who have been with me through the good times and bad.”
