Quick Read
- Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Al-Hilal in their FIFA Club World Cup opener.
- Xabi Alonso’s debut as Real Madrid manager ended in a frustrating result.
- Al-Hilal, under new coach Simone Inzaghi, showed resilience against the Spanish giants.
- Real Madrid’s recent form and squad changes are under scrutiny.
- The draw raises questions about Alonso’s ability to lead the team to success.
Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup campaign got off to a rocky start as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal on June 18, 2025. The match, played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, marked the debut of new manager Xabi Alonso, who has a lot of work ahead to restore the team’s dominance.
Xabi Alonso’s Debut Ends in Frustration
Xabi Alonso, who took over from Carlo Ancelotti earlier this year, faced a tough test in his first competitive match as Real Madrid’s manager. Despite a strong finish to the La Liga season, the team struggled to break down a resilient Al-Hilal side. The draw raises questions about Alonso’s tactical approach and his ability to manage a squad in transition.
Al-Hilal’s Resilience Under Inzaghi
Al-Hilal, managed by former Inter Milan coach Simone Inzaghi, put up a spirited performance. The Saudi Arabian team, which finished as runners-up in their domestic league, showed they could compete with one of Europe’s top clubs. Inzaghi’s tactical adjustments, including a shift to a 3-5-2 formation, proved effective in neutralizing Real Madrid’s attacking threats.
Real Madrid’s Squad Changes and Form
Real Madrid’s recent form and squad changes have come under scrutiny. The team finished second in La Liga, behind Barcelona, and has made several key signings, including Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen. However, the absence of five regular starters due to injuries and suspensions was evident in their lackluster performance against Al-Hilal.
Sportytrader highlighted that Real Madrid had scored at least two goals in their last six competitive matches, but they failed to replicate that form in this crucial opener. The draw leaves Alonso with much to ponder as he looks to guide the team through the rest of the tournament.
What’s Next for Real Madrid?
Real Madrid will need to regroup quickly as they face Pachuca and Red Bull Salzburg in their remaining Group H matches. The team’s ability to adapt to Alonso’s tactics and overcome their injury woes will be crucial in determining their success in the tournament.
Flashscore reported that veteran defender Sergio Ramos, now with Monterrey, believes Real Madrid are still the favorites to win the Club World Cup. However, the draw against Al-Hilal has cast doubt on that prediction.
Nytimes noted that Alonso’s arrival at Real Madrid was seen as a fresh start for the club, but the early signs suggest that the transition may not be as smooth as hoped. The pressure is on Alonso to deliver results and prove he is the right man for the job.
Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal has set the stage for a challenging FIFA Club World Cup campaign. Xabi Alonso’s debut as manager ended in frustration, and the team’s recent form and squad changes are under scrutiny. With tough matches ahead, Alonso has a lot of work to do to restore Real Madrid’s dominance on the global stage.