Real Madrid delivered a resilient performance to defeat Pachuca 3–1 in their second group-stage match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, despite playing nearly the entire game with 10 men.
The drama began early at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, when Raúl Asencio was shown a straight red card in the 7th minute for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. But instead of folding, Madrid responded with poise and precision.
Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 35th minute, latching onto a pass from Fran GarcÃa and finishing with a composed left-footed strike. Just before halftime, Arda Güler doubled the lead after a slick team move involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gonzalo GarcÃa.
In the second half, Federico Valverde made it 3–0 in the 70th minute, converting a low cross from Brahim DÃaz. Pachuca managed a late consolation goal through Elias Montiel in the 80th minute, but it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Despite being a man down, Madrid dominated possession (58%) and showed impressive defensive organization, with Thibaut Courtois making several key saves to preserve the lead. The win gives new manager Xabi Alonso his first competitive victory in charge and keeps Madrid’s hopes alive in Group H.
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