Pachuca Triumphs Over Columbus Crew to Claim CONCACAF Champions Cup Glory

Pachuca secured a decisive 3-0 victory over MLS outfit Columbus Crew at Estadio Hidalgo to clinch the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup title. The match showcased Pachuca’s superior quality, with the scoreline reflecting their dominance over the Crew. Despite having moments of promise, Columbus failed to capitalize on their chances, allowing Pachuca to establish control early on.

Salomón Rondón emerged as the hero of the night, netting a crucial goal and adding a second to seal the victory for Pachuca. The result guarantees Pachuca a spot in the upcoming 2025 Club World Cup, set to take place in various locations across the United States.

The 2022 Seattle Sounders remain the sole MLS team in the modern era to have won the CONCACAF Champions Cup, a feat that eluded Columbus Crew in their bid for continental glory.

In a post-match statement, Crew head coach Wilfried Nancy expressed pride in his team’s efforts but acknowledged their shortcomings on the night. He highlighted missed opportunities and credited Pachuca for their deserving win.

The match kicked off with an early chance for Columbus, as Diego Rossi tested Pachuca’s goalkeeper Carlos Moreno within seconds of the whistle. However, Columbus squandered several key opportunities throughout the game, failing to convert their attacking plays into goals.

Pachuca capitalized on their chances, with Rondón breaking the deadlock in the first half courtesy of a sublime pass from Nelson Deossa. Despite a disallowed goal, Pachuca extended their lead through Miguel Rodriguez, further solidifying their control over the game.

Rondón’s impact on the match mirrored that of André-Pierre Gignac at Tigres UANL, showcasing his prowess as a leading striker. With a successful season in Liga MX and a standout performance in the CONCACAF final, Rondón has emerged as a key player for Pachuca.

Columbus, aiming to become the fourth team in league history to claim continental glory, fell short against Pachuca’s formidable lineup. The Crew’s tactical prowess was unable to counter Pachuca’s attacking threat, resulting in a comprehensive victory for the Mexican side.

Despite MLS’s continued progress in international competitions, Columbus Crew joined the list of clubs that have fallen short in the CONCACAF tournament. The disappointment of defeat serves as a reminder of the challenges MLS teams face on the continental stage.

Pachuca’s triumph over Columbus Crew marks a significant milestone in the club’s history, solidifying their status as CONCACAF Champions Cup winners. The match showcased the evolving landscape of soccer in North America, with Pachuca emerging victorious in a hard-fought final.