Real Madrid will compete in the final of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2024 on December 18 at Lusail Stadium, Qatar.
What is the FIFA Intercontinental Cup?
This new tournament, officially called the “Coupe Intercontinentale de la FIFA,” is organized by FIFA to replace the Club World Cup as the annual competition for champions from different regions.
Previously, the FIFA Club World Cup was held every year, bringing together champions from various continents, but with the switch to a four-year cycle, FIFA needed another tournament to fill the gap. Thus, the FIFA Intercontinental Cup was created.
Format of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup
The FIFA Intercontinental Cup features six champions from different regions in a knockout format. Unlike the old Club World Cup, which included a host team, the new format only grants an automatic final spot to the UEFA Champions League winner, while other clubs compete for the remaining spot.
Currently, the tournament has completed its first two rounds: Asian champions Al Ain defeated Auckland City 6-2 but lost to Al Ahly 0-3. In the next round, the South American champion (yet to be determined) will face Pachuca (CONCACAF); the winner will then play Al Ahly to decide who reaches the final against Real Madrid.
Schedule for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2024
The tournament will take place in December 2024. The final will be held on December 18 at Lusail Stadium, with the two semifinal matches scheduled for December 11 and December 14 at Stadium 974.