Real Madrid claimed a third successive global title at UAE 2018 and in doing so, became the first team to claim four FIFA Club World Cup trophies. Just like at Japan 2016 against Kashima Antlers, Los Blancos faced a surprise package in the final – this time host club Al Ain, who shocked the watching world by denying South American giants River Plate in the semi-finals.

Real’s success against the Emirati side in Abu Dhabi marked former coach Santiago Solari’s first – and only – trophy as Los Blancos boss. Toni Kroos, meanwhile, made history by becoming the tournament’s most successful player with five winners’ medals – his first with Bayern in 2013, before the German’s four with Real between 2014 and 2018.

The FIFA Club World Cup Qatar 2019 gets under way on 11 December.