Real Madrid’s eagerly anticipated start under new manager Xabi Alonso was met with disappointment as the club was held to a 1–1 draw by Al‑Hilal in their opening Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 .
The contest began with promise for Los Blancos when academy graduate Gonzalo García put his side ahead in the 34th minute, following a swift and well-constructed counterattack . However, Al‑Hilal responded just seven minutes later as Rúben Neves calmly converted a spot kick after a foul by Raúl Asencio, restoring parity before the break .
Despite dominating play in the second half—with chances including a strike hitting the crossbar—Real Madrid were unable to break through . In stoppage time, a VAR-awarded penalty offered Madrid a dramatic opportunity, yet Federico Valverde’s low shot was expertly saved by Al‑Hilal’s goalkeeper Yassine Bounou .
Al‑Hilal’s performance was widely praised. Under Simone Inzaghi’s leadership, the Saudi side displayed grit, organization, and ambition—earning them a valuable point and reshaping perceptions of Middle Eastern football .
For Alonso, it was a subdued debut. He emphasized that the team’s transition—a shift away from established “automatisms”—will require more time, particularly given the intense conditions in Miami’s blazing heat . With just nine days and limited training sessions behind them, he highlighted the importance of patience as Real Madrid acclimatize to his tactical system .
Meanwhile, new signing Trent Alexander‑Arnold made a notable first appearance at right wing-back, contributing to the opening goal buildup but still adjusting to the demands of his role .
With matches against Pachuca and RB Salzburg looming, Alonso’s side must respond decisively to avoid a worrying start in Group H.
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