Real Madrid added their second trophy of the 2024/25 season earlier today as they lifted the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, defeating Mexican side CF Pachuca 3-0 in Qatar.
Goals from the three starting forwards on the night – Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo Goes, and Vinicius Jr. settled the tie in favour of Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
Rodrygo elated
Rodrygo, who scored a brilliant goal early in the second half, spoke to the media after the match and hailed his teammate, Vinicius Jr., who walked away with the Golden Ball at the tournament after his stunning display today.
“He is getting better and better, and we are delighted to have him here. We have a fantastic team, and we are very happy,” said the Brazilian about his compatriot.
The three goalscorers. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)
Talking about his own goal, which was subjected to a VAR check to ensure Jude Bellingham was not interfering with play from an offside position, Rodrygo remarked:
“I am very happy for another title and another goal in a final with this shirt. Bellingham goes in front of the goalkeeper, but he does not interfere with the play. I experienced it with a bit of emotion until the goal was given.”
The current season has been a rather slow one for Rodrygo, who has not been at his best form while injuries have not helped matter. Talking about how he was feeling now, the forward said:
“I feel good now. It is still a bit difficult because of the injuries I have had. I was out for a month, and then I played a match and got injured again. It was very tough, but now I feel a bit better physically. I need to work and rest a bit more to help the team.”
Continuing about his injury ordeal, the Brazilian attacker added: “You want to be well and help the team, but you cannot because you are injured. It was difficult, but everyone helped me through this process.”
“Now I feel good, and I hope to keep getting better physically every day. I know that if I am well, I can help in many ways,” he concluded.
Source: Real Madrid official website