SPECIAL FEATURES
Real Madrid clinched the eighth Club World Cup in their history, adding to those already won in 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018, plus the three Intercontinental Cups (1960, 1998 and 2002) to complete an unmatched record in the competition. This time around, the scene of the success was Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, which hosted the semi-final against Egypt's Al Ahly (1-4) and the final against Al Hilal (5-3).
In the opening game of this edition, Vini Jr., Valverde, Rodrygo and Arribas found the back of the net against the African side. In the title-decider, Vini Jr. and Valverde were on the scoresheet again (both netting a brace) alongside Benzema, who also got in on the action to ensure the Club World Cup was once again in the Real Madrid trophy cabinets.
Vini Jr. takes Golden Ball, Valverde clinches Silver
Following the final, Vini Jr. was named player of the tournament thanks to his impressive performances across both games. The Brazilian opened the scoring against Al Ahly and was voted MVP of the game. In the final against Al Hilal, he again played a key role, netting a brace and providing an assist for Karim Benzema.
The Brazilian was joined by Valverde, who also enjoyed an incredible Club World Cup campaign. The midfielder notched to make it 0-2 in semi-final against Al Ahly, before putting the icing on the cake of a superb tournament with a brace in the final.
Another of the standout performers on the way to the title was Toni Kroos, who continues to break records with Real Madrid. The German ace is the only player to have been crowned world champion on six occasions, topping the competition's individual trophy list. "I'm delighted to have won six Club World Cups", stated the midfield maestro.
And of course, Ancelotti's role must be highlighted, having led the team to the last Club World Cup to make it nine trophies to his name at the helm. The coach was incredibly pleased to get his hands on his latest title: "The atmosphere was fantastic. We did a great job and we're going back home with the trophy and every Real Madrid will be happy". In the same vein, Florentino Pérez, who headed a fantastic Supporters' Club event in Rabat prior to the final, was delighted by the success: “To win the Club World Cup, you have to win the Champions League. Madrid has a special relationship with the Champions League and this Club World Cup is the icing on the cake”.
