Xabi Alonso’s Madrid Era Begins with Hard-Fought Win Over Al-Hilal
Miami, FL (June 18, 2025) – Real Madrid kicked off their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal, marking Xabi Alonso’s debut as head coach. Despite the absence of star forward Kylian Mbappé due to illness, Los Blancos secured a 2-1 win at Hard Rock Stadium, with goals from Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham sealing the three points 113.
The match was a tactical battle between Alonso and Al-Hilal’s Simone Inzaghi, with both teams fielding strong lineups. Madrid’s new signings, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, made their debuts, while young striker Gonzalo García was handed a surprise start in Mbappé’s absence 57.
Confirmed Lineups: Key Changes and Surprise Picks
Real Madrid Starting XI
- GK: Thibaut Courtois
- Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raúl Asencio, Dean Huijsen, Fran García
- Midfielders: Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham
- Forwards: Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, Gonzalo García
Notable Absences:
- Kylian Mbappé (illness) – The French superstar was ruled out after developing a fever.
- Antonio Rüdiger (injury) – Still recovering from meniscus surgery.
Al-Hilal Starting XI
- GK: Yassine Bounou
- Defenders: Kalidou Koulibaly, Hassan Al-Tambakti, Renan Lodi
- Midfielders: Ruben Neves, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Salem Al-Dawsari
- Forwards: Malcom, Marcos Leonardo
Key Missing Player:
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Aleksandar Mitrović (injury) – The Serbian striker was sidelined with a muscle issue.
Match Highlights: Vinícius & Bellingham Shine in Miami
First Half: Madrid Dominates Possession
Alonso’s men controlled the tempo early, with Bellingham pulling the strings in midfield. The breakthrough came in the 28th minute when Vinícius Jr. cut inside from the left and curled a stunning strike past Bono.
Second Half: Al-Hilal Fights Back
Al-Hilal equalized in the 62nd minute through Malcom, who capitalized on a defensive lapse. However, Bellingham restored Madrid’s lead just 10 minutes later with a powerful header from a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross.
Post-Match Reactions
- Xabi Alonso: “We showed character. It’s just the beginning, but the hunger is there.”
- Simone Inzaghi: “We had our chances. Against Madrid, small mistakes cost you.”
Why Was Mbappé Missing?
Mbappé was a late scratch after falling ill with a fever. Alonso confirmed he “wasn’t risked” but should return for the next match against Pachuca 711.
Where to Watch Replays & Next Fixtures
- Streaming: DAZN (global free coverage)
- Next Match: Real Madrid vs. Pachuca – June 22, 2025
FAQ Section
1. Why didn’t Mbappé play against Al-Hilal?
He was sidelined with a fever and wasn’t risked by the medical staff 711.
2. Who scored for Real Madrid?
Vinícius Jr. (28’) and Jude Bellingham (72’) secured the win 1315.
3. Did Trent Alexander-Arnold make his debut?
Yes, the ex-Liverpool star started at right-back 513.
4. What’s next for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup?
They face Pachuca on June 22 in their second group match
