Pachuca Claims Sixth CONCACAF Champions Cup Title, Extends Mexican Dominance

Pachuca Triumphs in CONCACAF Champions Cup, Extends Mexican Dominance

Mexican powerhouse Pachuca claimed their sixth CONCACAF Champions Cup title on Saturday, dismantling Major League Soccer's Columbus Crew 3-0 in a dominant display at their Estadio Hidalgo.

Veteran striker Salomon Rondon led the charge for Pachuca, scoring twice to secure the victory. The Venezuelan international opened the scoring in the 12th minute, chipping the ball over Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte after breaking free of the defense.

Just moments later, Pachuca thought they had doubled their lead through Oussama Idrissi, but the goal was overturned by VAR due to a foul in the build-up. However, the reprieve was short-lived as Miguel Rodriguez made it 2-0 in the 30th minute, finishing off a well-worked move.

Columbus, who had eliminated Mexican giants UANL Tigres and Monterrey en route to the final, struggled to cope with Pachuca's superior movement and pace. Despite preparing for the high altitude of Pachuca's home ground, the MLS champions were overwhelmed by the home team's relentless attacks.

Rondon sealed the victory in the 67th minute, sweeping home a low finish after good work from Idrissi. Columbus never looked capable of mounting a comeback, as Pachuca continued to dominate possession and create chances.

Pachuca's triumph extends Mexico's long-standing dominance in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Mexican clubs have now won 18 of the last 19 editions of the tournament, which is the premier continental club competition for teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean.

The victory also secures Pachuca's berth in next year's expanded FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States.

Tags: #CONCACAFChampionsCup, #Pachuca, #ColumbusCrew, #SalomonRondon, #MexicanFootball