2024 Intercontinental Cup: Everything You Need to Know

The Intercontinental Cup, a prestigious international football tournament, is making a comeback in 2024 after a 20-year hiatus. This revival marks a significant shift in the international club football landscape, replacing the FIFA Club World Cup.

The final will feature Real Madrid, representing UEFA as Champions League winners, and Pachuca, the CONCACAF champions who emerged victorious from the preliminary rounds. This match-up promises to be an exciting clash between European and North American football giants.

The tournament structure involves champions from six FIFA confederations: UEFA (Europe), CONMEBOL (South America), CONCACAF (North America), AFC (Asia), CAF (Africa), and OFC (Oceania). While the UEFA champion gains direct entry to the final, the other continental winners compete in elimination rounds to determine Real Madrid’s opponent.

Set for Wednesday, December 18th at 18:00 local time, the final will take place at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar. Venezuelan referee Jesús Valenzuela will officiate the match, with his compatriot Juan Soto serving as VAR.

For viewers in Spain, the match will be broadcast live on Telecinco. This free-to-air coverage ensures wide accessibility for football fans eager to witness this historic event.

A victory for Real Madrid would secure their second trophy of the season, following their UEFA Super Cup triumph in August. As football enthusiasts worldwide anticipate the return of this iconic competition, all eyes will be on Doha to see which team emerges as the 2024 Intercontinental Cup champion.