Gareth Bale hit an 11-minute hat-trick on Wednesday as Real Madrid strolled into the Club World Cup final by beating Kashima Antlers 3-1 in Abu Dhabi. Bale scored in the 44th, 53rd and 55th minutes at the Zayed Sports City Stadium to put Madrid within touching distance of a record fourth success in this competition, and their third triumph in a row.
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Club World Cup
In pictures: Real Madrid reach Club World Cup final
Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Al Jazira booked their place in the final of the Club World Cup, set to be played this Saturday against Gremio.
Club World Cup
Returning Bale rescues Real from Al Jazira upset
Abu Dhabi side led 1-0 at the break after a remarkable first half