These are the five players who give Pachuca reason to believe at the Club World Cup
Ahead of Pachuca’s Club World Cup opener at Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium, we take a look at the Mexican team’s key players.
Pachuca is gearing up for its Club World Cup adventure in the United States, where the Liga MX team has been drawn in Group H alongside Real Madrid, Al Hilal and Red Bull Salzburg.
Ahead of Los Tuzos’ Club World Cup opener, against Salzburg today, we take a closer look at five Pachuca players who offer the fans hope of enjoying a dream tournament: Salomón Rondón, Oussama Idrissi, John Kennedy, Robert Kenedy and Avilés Hurtado.
Salomón Rondón: Los Tuzos’ goalscorer
A 35-year-old Venezuelan striker, Rondón is undoubtedly one of the cornerstones of the team. Since joining Pachuca in 2023, the South American forward has made an immediate impact. During the 2024 season, he was the top scorer in Liga MX with 10 goals, including eight in the regular season and two in the playoffs, earning him the Golden Ball as the best forward in the championship. His ability to find the net in crucial moments and his leadership on the field make him key to the team’s aspirations in the Club World Cup.
Oussama Idrissi: Creativity in midfield
Idrissi, a 29-year-old Moroccan-Dutch winger, has been a valuable addition since his arrival at Pachuca in 2023. With experience in European leagues such as the Eredivisie and LaLiga, Idrissi brings vision and creativity to the midfield. His ability to create opportunities and break through on the wings makes him an invaluable asset for unsettling opponents. His presence is vital for maintaining the balance between defense and attack, especially in a high-pressure tournament like the Club World Cup.
John Kennedy: Brazilian prospect
John Kennedy, a 22-year-old Brazilian forward, represents the future of the team. A player who joined the club at the beginning of 2025, Kennedy arrives with a promising resume, having been instrumental in Fluminense’s Copa Libertadores title win in 2023. His speed, lethal finishing inside the box, and ability to press defenders make him a constant threat.
Robert Kenedy: European experience
A 29-year-old Brazilian, Robert Kenedy recently joined Pachuca on loan from Real Valladolid, with an eye on the Club World Cup. Known for his versatility, Kenedy can play as a left winger or midfielder, providing adaptability to different tactical schemes. His experience with European clubs such as Chelsea, Watford and Newcastle United makes him a key reinforcement for international competition.
Avilés Hurtado: Returning veteran
Avilés Hurtado, a 38-year-old Colombian forward, rejoined Pachuca ahead of the Club World Cup, having had two previous spells with the team. His experience and knowledge of Mexican soccer make him a valuable player to add depth to the attack. Although his career has had its ups and downs, his ability to score goals in decisive moments could be crucial in such a competitive tournament. His veteran presence and leadership in the locker room also strengthen the team, especially in a high-pressure context.
Pachuca vs Salzburg: when, where, how to watch?
On matchday one of Club World Cup Group H, Pachuca and Salzburg meet today, Wednesday June 18, at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati. Kick-off in Ohio is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. ET/3:00 p.m. PT.
Viewers in the U.S. can watch the game on DAZN USA.
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