"For footballer Salomon Rondon, participating in the Club World Cup at the age of 35 holds significant importance. In an interview, he expresses his profound joy and considers this event as much more than just a tournament for Pachuca."
Taking a spin with Salomon Rondon, the cult hero at Pachuca, we dug deep into why the Club World Cup holds such importance for him. This fella's been on fire since joining the Mexican side in 2024, netting 36 goals in 67 appearances, and he's drooling at the prospect of adding to that tally at the Club World Cup.
Pachuca's first challenge comes against Red Bull Salzburg in Cincinnati tomorrow, followed by encounters with Real Madrid and Al-Hilal. The top two teams progressing to the knockout rounds means business is gonna be tough, but that ain't stopping this crew from giving it their all.
Rondon's all about the historic vibe of this tournament. "Never happened in football history," he says, explaining, "It's a huge tournament. We're representing Mexico and the CONCACAF confederation, but everyone's excited. We have to be ready to play every game like a final."
Making it to this tournament was a significant achievement, with Pachuca qualifying by winning last year's CONCACAF Champions Cup in style. Rondon shone, scoring a bunch of goals and even being named the tournament's best player. In the final match at Estadio Hidalgo, he bagged a brace and helped Pachuca to a 3-0 win over Columbus Crew, securing a spot at this year's Club World Cup.
This has been an outstanding experience for Rondon. "Been a really good experience," he admits. "I've played in many teams and leagues, but when Tuzos came to me, I was excited to come to Mexico. Settled quickly because I started scoring goals. Good chemistry with my teammates."
Although Salzburg and Al-Hilal are unfamiliar opponents, Pachuca does have recent experience facing Real Madrid. In a clash back in December, they made the final of the Intercontinental Cup, where the reigning champs awaited. They put up a good fight, but it proved to be a bridge too far as Madrid won 3-0. But Rondon's got newfound confidence after reviewing the footage, learning from their past mistakes, and preparing for the rematch.
At 35, this dude's still going strong as a potent target man. Cementing his place in several different countries, Pachuca is the seventh stop on this global journey. Known to Premier League fans for his stints at West Brom, Newcastle, and Everton, this tournament offers another chance to shine and further his legacy.
As one of the experienced players, Rondon's role includes guiding his fellow teammates through each challenge. Offering advice as they take on the world's best, this legend remains focused on delivering his A-game, day in and day out.
"Opportunity to be part of it, at 35 years old, is massive," Rondon shares, beaming with excitement. "Just prepare myself every day like a professional. Like every year, and every team I've played for, I give 100% to help the team - scoring goals, working hard, and helping my team grow."
So, here's to Salomon Rondon and Pachuca, as they push their limits and represent Mexico in the Club World Cup. Basketball-style, they're going for the three-peat—wins at the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Intercontinental Cup, and now their sights are set on Club World Cup glory. Let the games begin!
In the upcoming Club World Cup, Salomon Rondon expresses his anticipation for sports-analysis opportunities, stating, "We have to be ready to play every game like a final." Rondon's sports-betting chances are high, as he aims to add to his already impressive 36 goals at Pachuca, in light of their encounters against Red Bull Salzburg, Real Madrid, and Al-Hilal.
