Tue Dec 17 20:12:29 UTC 2024: ## Pachuca Stuns Al Ahly in Penalty Shootout to Reach Intercontinental Cup Final

**DOHA, QATAR** – CF Pachuca of Mexico secured a dramatic victory over Al Ahly of Egypt in the FIFA Challenger Cup on Saturday, winning 6-5 on penalties after a grueling 0-0 draw. The CONCACAF champions will now face European giants Real Madrid in the Intercontinental Cup final on Wednesday at Lusail Stadium.

The match was a tense affair, with Al Ahly dominating possession, particularly in the first half. Pachuca goalkeeper Carlos Moreno proved instrumental, making several key saves to keep the score level. Despite tactical changes and substitutions from both sides, neither team could break the deadlock through 120 minutes of play.

Pachuca’s penalty shootout began poorly, with Salomón Rondón and Borja Bastón both missing their attempts. However, Moreno’s heroics continued, saving a penalty from Mahmoud Kahraba, while Omar Kamal’s shot went wide. Faber Gil ultimately converted the decisive penalty, securing a 6-5 victory for Pachuca after Khaled Abdelfattah struck the crossbar.

“It was difficult, very complicated, especially because of the marathon game we played today,” said Pachuca coach Guillermo Almada. Midfielder Pedro Pedraza added, “Confidence is the last thing to die… Carlos became the star, he deserved it.”

This is Pachuca’s fifth appearance at a FIFA competition, with their best previous result being a third-place finish at the 2017 Club World Cup. They will face a formidable opponent in Real Madrid, the most successful Intercontinental Cup winners with five titles.

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