On June 2, 2024, the Estadio Hidalgo hosted a high-stakes CONCACAF Champions Cup final between CF Pachuca Vs Columbus Crew. In the end, the Pachuca emerged as the winning team with a scoreline of 3-0, marking their seventh title in the tournament’s history and reaffirming themselves as kings of football in North America.
Table of Contents
Pachuca Vs Columbus Crew Match Summary and Key Highlights
First Half Domination by Pachuca
Pachuca set the match on a high tempo with an aggressive and much-coordinated attack right from the start. The match’s opener came in the 12th minute when Salomón Rondón benefited from a beautifully threaded ball from Nicolás Deossa to score the opener. Rondón showed his clinical nature by slotting in a second goal with a lovely chip right over ‘keeper Patrick Schulte in minute 32.
The strong rhythm of the game did not stop, as Pachuca managed to double their lead in the 32nd minute. This time, Emilio Rodríguez found the goal, completing a fast break driven by Érick Sánchez. Rodríguez’s shot with the left foot offered Schulte no chance for Pachuca’s very efficient transition play.
Second Half – Securing the Win
Columbus Crew tried to enjoy some recovery of momentum, but they failed to break through Pachuca’s solid defense. Pachuca is ahead and maintaining the situation, making constant efforts to attack. Rondón got the winning goal for Pachuca, his second of the match, in the 67th minute to give him 10 in the tournament.
Tactical Breakdown of Pachuca Vs Columbus Crew
Pachuca’s Way to Victory
Pachuca’s way of playing, under coach Guillermo Almada, was on full display during the game. The essence of the plans by Almada was characterized by the quick transition and high pressing that bothered the build-up of Columbus Crew. The Pachuca defense was standing firm, marshaled expertly by central defenders Óscar Murillo and Gustavo Cabral, who kept at bay Diego Rossi and Cucho Hernández of Columbus Crew.
Columbus Crew’s Challenges
Despite their historic run to the final, Columbus Crew faced several problems. Midfield mastermind Lucas Zelarayán was missing, with an injury leaving a creative void in the setup. Diego Rossi and a not-fully-fit Cucho Hernández under coach Wilfried Nancy couldn’t deliver as expected. They could not score from the limited opportunities, and the Pachuca team’s solid defense made life hard for Columbus in attack.
Post-Match Reactions and Implications
Pachuca Celebrates a Historic Win
A historical seven-CACAF Champions Cup title win was celebrated by the players and fans of Pachuca. Manager Guillermo Almada credited his side’s performance as tactically disciplined and executed accordingly. The victory also secures Pachuca a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where they will share the spotlight with the best clubs globally, potentially meeting the likes of Manchester City and Real Madrid.
Columbus Crew To Move Forward
Columbus Crew made it to the final; this is an excellent achievement for the team. They got their big wins over Mexican powerhouses Tigres UANL and Monterrey in the previous stages of the competition. Coach Wilfried Nancy said he was very proud of his team and appreciated that experience, which will hugely count during the next competitions.
Performance Analysis in Detail
Pachuca’s offensive masterclass was characterized by fast counter-attacking play and high pressing that effectively caused disturbance to the Columbus defense. Salomón Rondón scored twice, proving his instincts for poaching and goal-scoring ability. Creative support from Nicolás Deossa and Érick Sánchez helped break down the defensive solidity of Columbus.
Columbus Crew’s Defensive Struggles
Pachuca was pressing at will against the defense of Columbus, mainly Jonathan Mensah and Josh Williams. The visiting team’s midfield, strained in inspiration without Lucas Zelarayán, could not manage possession and combine with the forwards. The result is roughly accurate; the Crew didn’t make a dent despite their defensive efforts, as Pachuca kept dominating possessions and effectively finishing plays.
Conclusion
Pachuca won the CONCACAF Champions Cup Final 3-0 against Columbus Crew, clinching to their tactical ability and constancy in regional competitions. This victory added not only to their rich legacy but also set the stage for their participation in the next FIFA Club World Cup. Columbus Crew is another very disappointed team that, at least, can be proud of its heroism; they can use this experience to build a team for the future.
