In a dramatic Group H opener at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in Miami, Real Madrid, under rookie coach Xabi Alonso, were held to a 1–1 draw by Saudi champions Al‑Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18.
First-Half Highlights:
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Real took the lead in the 34th minute via academy graduate Gonzalo García, who calmly slotted home following a flowing team move.
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Shortly before halftime, Rúben Neves levelled for Al‑Hilal from the penalty spot, awarded after a foul on Marcos Leonardo.
Despite dominating possession in the second half and pulling one shot off the bar, Madrid were denied a winner when Federico Valverde missed a late penalty—saved by keeper Yassine Bounou.
Key Takeaways
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New Coach, New System: Alonso opted for a 4-3-3 shape, but the team’s cohesion remains a work-in-progress after just nine training sessions.
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Defensive Concerns: Real were without key defenders Carvajal, Rüdiger, and Militão, and their absence was felt amid Al‑Hilal’s early dominance and attacking initiative.
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Al‑Hilal's Rise: Coached by Simone Inzaghi, Al‑Hilal played with purpose and confidence, demonstrating the growing strength of the Saudi Pro League on the global stage.
Post-Match Reflections
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Alonso admitted the result exposed areas for improvement, warning that integrating new tactics and personnel will take time.
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Inzaghi praised his side’s resilience and collective effort: “A very good game… the lads played with organisation and personality against one of the three strongest teams in the world.”
What Comes Next
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Real Madrid face Mexican side Pachuca in their next Group H fixture.
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Al‑Hilal prepare for a tough clash with Red Bull Salzburg.
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With Los Blancos unexpectedly tied on a single point, both teams must deliver strong performances to secure progression.
This draw signals the challenge ahead for both sides, underlining that even giants like Real Madrid cannot afford to take any match lightly.
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