Winning the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, Lucas Vázquez declared that Real Madrid is “still very hungry.”
At the end of a highly successful year, Real Madrid has added another feather to its cap by claiming the FIFA Intercontinental Cup. However, instead of basking in satisfaction, the team, led by captain Lucas Vázquez, remains eager for more triumphs.
On Wednesday night at Qatar’s Lusail Stadium—the venue for the 2022 World Cup final—Real Madrid defeated Mexico’s Pachuca FC 3-0 in the final. Kylian Mbappé’s first-half goal put Real ahead, followed by strikes from Rodrygo and Vinícius Júnior.
Under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance, 2024 has been a dream year for Real Madrid, marking their fifth trophy of the season. Their winning streak began in January with a commanding 4-1 victory over arch-rivals Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Since then, the team has secured the Champions League, La Liga, UEFA Super Cup, and now, the Intercontinental Cup.
In its revamped format, replacing the previous FIFA Club World Cup, the Intercontinental Cup brought together the top clubs from six continents. Real Madrid, the inaugural champions of this new tournament, celebrated amidst recent inconsistent performances.
Lucas Vázquez was elated after the match, reflecting on an incredible year while emphasizing their determination to achieve even more.
“It’s been an unbelievable year. We’ve shown resilience and proved that our ambitions remain intact. We’re still very hungry, and we want more success,” said Vázquez.
Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, who delivered a stellar performance against Pachuca, earned the Adidas Silver Ball award. The Uruguayan expressed pride in both his individual recognition and the team’s collective success.
“I’m very happy to win another personal award, which I dedicate to all my supporters, my wife, my child, and my parents, who have been with me through thick and thin. I’m proud to win another trophy with the team,” Valverde shared.
Vinícius Júnior, who scored and assisted in the final, was awarded the Golden Ball. This comes just a day after he was named FIFA Men’s Player of the Year.
