Club World Cup 2023: Real Madrid triumphs as Club World Cup Champions for a historic fifth time, defeating Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia with a 5-3 victory in the final match held in Rabat, Morocco. Vinicius Junior shone with two goals, while Karim Benzema added a third, supported by Federico Valverde’s double. Despite Al-Hilal’s valiant effort, they never managed to take the lead in the game. Luciano Vietto and Moussa Marega scored for the Asian champions.
Madrid wins fifth Club World Cup
Madrid’s win marks their fourth time winning the Club World Cup, with previous victories in 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018. Benzema’s presence in the starting lineup came as a mild surprise, as just a day prior, Ancelotti had expressed uncertainty over his participation. The French striker played a crucial role in the opener, setting up Vinicius for the first goal.
Valverde’s powerful shot through a defender’s legs and into the net secured the double advantage for Madrid. Al-Hilal struggled in the opening minutes but regained their footing with Marega’s 26th-minute goal. Despite the outcome, it was clear that Al-Hilal’s journey to the final was no fluke, having defeated Brazil’s Flamengo along the way.
Worthwhile finale at the Club World Cup 2023
The former Porto forward unchallengedly ran away, analyzed Andriy Lunin, and shot past Madrid’s substitute goalkeeper, who played in place of the injured Thibaut Courtois. This goal gave Al-Hilal a sense of calm and left Madrid at a standstill until Vinicius made a sublime pass to set up Benzema’s goal.
The Brazilian forward used the outer part of his right foot to curl a short cross around a defender and meet Benzema’s quick run. Benzema finished the job with one touch, powering it into the top of the net in the 54th minute. Valverde added his second goal in the 58th minute.
Vietto scored two goals sandwiching Vinicius’ second, finding the net in the 63rd and 79th minute, as Madrid’s defense was unable to keep up with the Argentinian in the box. A missed opportunity by Marega in the closing moments prevented Al-Hilal from going for a last-ditch equalizer.
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