Real Madrid’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Performance
Real Madrid, a La Liga giant, entered the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup as favorites, building on their 2024-25 UEFA Super Cup win. Competing in Group H with Al Hilal, Pachuca, and RB Salzburg, they’ve shown grit and flair under new manager Xabi Alonso. Here’s a breakdown of their recent matches.
Group Stage Recap
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Real Madrid 1-1 Al Hilal (June 18, Miami): Real Madrid started with a hard-fought draw against Saudi Pro League’s Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium. Gonzalo García scored for Madrid, but Rúben Neves equalized with a penalty. A late penalty miss by Federico Valverde, saved by Yassine Bounou, ended their 11-match Club World Cup win streak. Despite 63% possession, Madrid struggled to convert chances, showing areas for improvement.
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Real Madrid 3-1 Pachuca (June 23, Charlotte): Los Blancos bounced back with a 3-1 win over Pachuca at Bank of America Stadium. Goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Fede Valverde secured the victory, even after a red card left Madrid with 10 players. This match highlighted their resilience and attacking depth against the CONCACAF champions.
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Real Madrid 3-0 RB Salzburg (June 27, Cincinnati): Real Madrid sealed Group H’s top spot with a 3-0 rout of RB Salzburg at TQL Stadium. Vinícius Júnior scored and assisted, while Kylian Mbappé marked his return from illness with a goal. The performance showcased Alonso’s 3-4-3 formation, with a dominant display despite rainy conditions.
Round of 16: Real Madrid 1-0 Juventus (July 1, Miami)
In the Round of 16, Real Madrid edged Juventus 1-0 at Hard Rock Stadium. Gonzalo García’s second-half header, set up by Trent Alexander-Arnold, secured their quarterfinal spot against Borussia Dortmund. Despite early pressure from Juventus’ Randal Kolo Muani, Madrid’s relentless pressing and goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio’s 10 saves kept the Italian side at bay. This win marked a strong debut for Mbappé as a substitute, delighting fans.
Analysis and Thoughts
Real Madrid’s campaign reflects their status as a global football titan. Their group stage dominance, earning seven points, showed tactical evolution under Xabi Alonso’s 3-4-3 system. The draw against Al Hilal exposed finishing issues, but wins over Pachuca and Salzburg, plus the Juventus victory, highlight their depth and adaptability. Standout players like Vinícius Júnior (FIFA’s 2025 Best Men’s Player) and Jude Bellingham (3 goals, 1 assist) are driving Madrid’s charge, with Mbappé’s return adding firepower.
However, the Al Hilal draw and Valverde’s penalty miss suggest Madrid must sharpen their clinical edge to face tough quarterfinal contenders like Borussia Dortmund, led by Serhou Guirassy. With a $125 million prize pool at stake, Real Madrid’s mix of youth (Arda Güler) and experience (Thibaut Courtois) positions them as favorites, but consistency will be key.
What’s Next?
Real Madrid faces Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinals on July 5 at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford. This rematch of the 2024 Champions League final promises fireworks. Follow CR7Ronaldo for live updates, FIFA gameplay tips, and insights on stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Mohamed Salah!
FAQs:
Q: Who are Real Madrid’s key players in the tournament?
A: Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Arda Güler are leading the charge, with Federico Valverde and Trent Alexander-Arnold adding midfield and defensive flair.
Q: What formation is Real Madrid using?
A: Xabi Alonso has deployed a 3-4-3 formation, balancing attack and defense, as seen in their 1-0 win over Juventus.
Q: How can I watch Real Madrid’s matches?
A: All FIFA Club World Cup matches, including Real Madrid’s, are available for free on DAZN and FIFA+. Check local listings for kickoff times.
Q: What’s at stake for Real Madrid?
A: A record sixth Club World Cup title and up to $125 million in prize money, plus global bragging rights as the world’s best club.
Q: Why follow CR7Ronaldo for updates?
A: We offer fun, easy-to-read blogs on football news, match analysis, and player stories, keeping you in the loop with the latest from the FIFA Club World Cup and beyond!
