BREAKING: The Copa Intercontinental final phase opens today in Qatar, and a classic of the Americas gets the spotlight. Cruz Azul, the champions of North and Central America, face the South American title holders in Al Rayyan. The winner moves on to meet Africa’s champions, Pyramids FC, with Paris Saint‑Germain waiting in the December 17 final. I can confirm DAZN will make the last three matches free to watch in Spain, a bold move that throws this revamped tournament into millions of homes.
What Is at Stake
This is the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in its new shape. Six continental champions, one world stage, and a December showpiece that crowns the global club king. Real Madrid beat Pachuca last year. Now a different bracket is building toward PSG, the European champions, who sit directly in the final.
Cruz Azul bring the grit of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. They like to press in bursts, then play quickly through midfield. The South American champs, as ever, carry craft and bite. They lean on rhythm, short combinations, and set piece danger. Styles will clash, and that is the magic here.
The path is clear. Win tonight, survive December 13, then take a shot at PSG on December 17 at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
Final phase dates in Qatar, all at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium: Dec 10, Dec 13, Dec 17.
How to Watch, and Why Access Matters
Fans in the United States can stream today’s match on FIFA+. In Spain, DAZN has opened the gates, free of charge, for the final trilogy of games. That covers today’s Derby of the Americas, the December 13 Challenger Cup, and the final.
This is a statement on reach, not just rights. Free access in a major football market builds the event fast. It gives neutral viewers a low barrier, which fuels the competition’s identity.
DAZN will carry match broadcasts and highlights in Spain at no cost during the final phase.
Qatar is again the stage. World Cup venues and operations create a smooth fan and player experience. The country has stacked the calendar with elite youth and club events this fall, and the Intercontinental Cup benefits from that platform.
The Matchup, On the Grass
Cruz Azul tend to be direct when space opens, and their back line is disciplined. The key for them is first contact on crosses and defending the half spaces. If they win the duels, they travel.
The South American champions will try to turn the midfield into a carousel. They will slow the game when needed, then go vertical in a flash. Watch for late runs from midfield and rehearsed corners. If they draw fouls in dangerous zones, they tilt the field.
Set pieces could decide this. Both sides are strong in the air. The side that keeps composure after the first challenge often seizes momentum.
First goal matters. In this tournament, teams that score first can control energy and rest legs for the tight December window.
The Road to PSG
The winner tonight meets Pyramids FC on December 13. The Egyptian side are organized, compact, and confident from their continent’s run. That is no soft step. Survive that, and PSG stand at the finish line.
- Dec 10, Cruz Azul vs South American champions
- Dec 13, Winner vs Pyramids FC, Challenger Cup
- Dec 17, Final vs PSG
PSG have been waiting, which cuts both ways. Extra prep time helps, but big gaps can cool rhythm. The European champions will scout for transition lanes and try to exploit tired legs late in matches. Their finishers need only half chances. Any opponent reaching December 17 must manage the game, not just chase it.
Why This Tournament Is Growing
The Intercontinental Cup links every confederation in a simple ladder. It removes clutter and puts champions in direct conflict. Last year proved the format can deliver. This year is building on that with better access and clear stakes.
For players, it is a measuring stick. Can a regional champion impose style outside its comfort zone. For clubs, it is a brand stage in a single week. For fans, it offers rare matchups that feel fresh, and they matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Copa Intercontinental?
A: It is the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, a club tournament with champions from all six confederations, ending in a December final.
Q: Where is the final phase being played?
A: In Al Rayyan, Qatar, at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
Q: Who does the winner of today’s match face next?
A: Pyramids FC on December 13 in the Challenger Cup match.
Q: Who is already in the final?
A: Paris Saint‑Germain, the UEFA champions, await the Challenger Cup winner on December 17.
Q: How can I watch?
A: In the United States, on FIFA+. In Spain, DAZN is broadcasting the final phase for free.
The final phase starts now, and the tone is set. A derby feel, a fast bracket, and a global stage sharpen the focus. Win three matches, lift a world title. Qatar has the lights ready. The football will do the rest.
