RABAT: Real Madrid are not only European champions but, once more, also world champions after Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal 5-3 in Rabat to win the club world crown for a record-extending eighth time.

Vinicius Jr and Federico Valverde put European champions Real 2-0 up and Moussa Marega gave Al-Hilal hope before Vinicius set up Karim Benzema’s goal. Valverde netted again and Luciano Vietto scored before Vinicius’s second. Vietto struck back once more, in vain.

Carlo Ancelotti’s Madrid added to their four cups from 2014 to 2018 – and ensured European teams have won the past 10 editions of the tournament. They had brushed off Egyptian side Al Ahly 4-1 in the semi-finals, the round the European champions always enter the tournament.

Asian champions Al-Hilal, who are managed by former Oxford United boss Ramon Diaz, beat Brazilians Flamengo in the semis to become the first Saudi team to reach the final.

But despite the double from former Fulham striker Vietto they could not become the first Asian team to lift the trophy.

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