Club World Cup Updates: Al Hilal Draws with Real Madrid, Salzburg and Juventus Secure Wins

MIAMI: In a Club World Cup Group H match held at Hard Rock Stadium on Wednesday, Al Hilal managed a 1-1 draw against Real Madrid after their goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, saved a penalty from Federico Valverde during stoppage time in the second half.

Gonzalo Garcia gave Madrid the lead in the 34th minute, skillfully lifting the ball over Bounou following an excellent pass from Rodrygo.

The Saudi Pro League team maintained strong ball possession and generated numerous scoring opportunities early in the game.

Al-Hilal’s coach, Simone Inzaghi, formerly of Inter Milan, saw his team equalize when midfielder Ruben Neves successfully converted a penalty. This penalty was awarded after Madrid’s defender, Raul Asencio, was found to have fouled Marcos Leonardo within the penalty area.

Late in the game, Madrid received a penalty after a VAR review determined that Al-Hilal’s Mohammad Alqahtani had fouled Fran Garcia in the box.

Valverde’s penalty attempt was thwarted by Bounou, who made a crucial save diving to his right, preserving the tie. This game marked the opening Group H match for both squads.

In other news, FC Red Bull Salzburg triumphed over CF Pachuca from Mexico with a score of 2-1, thanks to a header from substitute Karim Onisiwo in the 76th minute.

Oscar Gloukh initially put the Austrian side ahead in the 42nd minute, but Bryan González of Puchuca equalized 14 minutes later.

Separately, Juventus showcased their dominance against Emirati club Al-Ain, winning 5-0, with Randal Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceicao each scoring two goals.