REAL MADRID are the 2017 Club World Cup champions after beating Gremio 1-0 in the final.
And it was Cristiano Ronaldo's sublime free kick that separated the two sides in Abu Dhabi.
Madrid have now won five trophies in 2017 and they have equalled Barcelona's record of three Club World Cup titles.
Zinedine Zidane's side started quickly and Dani Carvajal came close to breaking the deadlock after 20 minutes.
The 25-year-old struck a volleyed effort at the target, but his shot was cleared off the line by Walter Kannemann.
Ronaldo struggled to get out of second gear and his closest chance of the first half came from 35 yards. He stood over the free kick, before sending the set piece just narrowly over the bar.
Los Blancos dominated the first half, with 64 per cent possession, but they were unable to provide the goods in the final third. Gremio shouted for a penalty in the early stages of the second half after Ramiro Benetti was clattered into by Sergio Ramos in the box.
But the referee saw no intent from the Real skipper and waved play on... much to the relief of Zinedine Zidane. Just moments later, Ronaldo stepped up and scored the opener in sublime style.
His 30 yard free kick went over Gremio's wall and flew into the back of the net to give Madrid the lead.
Madrid came close to doubling their tally in quick succession, but Ronaldo's strike from inside of the area was disallowed as the linesman raised his flag instantly.
Gremio failed to produce a shot on target throughout the whole game in Abu Dhabi... and they have paid the ultimate price.
From The Sun
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