New Delhi, June 23(HS): In the Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Real Madrid triumphed over Pachuca 3-1, marking Xabi Alonso’s first win as manager. The match, held in hot conditions in Charlotte, North Carolina, saw Madrid reduced to 10 men early on when Raul Asensio received a red card for fouling Solomon Rondon. Despite this, Madrid scored twice in the first half, first with Jude Bellingham’s 15-yard strike in the 35th minute, following a clever assist from Fran Garcia. Shortly after, in the 43rd minute, Arda Güler converted a cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold.
In the second half, Federico Valverde netted a sliding volley in the 70th minute, adding to their lead. Although Pachuca pressured consistently and managed a consolation goal from Elias Montiel’s deflected shot in the 80th minute, Thibaut Courtois’ 10 saves kept Madrid secure. Real Madrid now boasts 4 points from two matches and will play RB Salzburg next, while Pachuca is eliminated from the tournament with two losses. Despite a majority of shots favoring Pachuca, Madrid capitalized on crucial opportunities.
Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
