Real Madrid Edges Past Pachuca in Club World Cup Clash

CHARLOTTE: In a Group H match held at Bank of America Stadium on Sunday, Real Madrid, despite playing with ten men, managed a 3-1 victory over Pachuca, advancing their chances of reaching the Club World Cup knockout rounds.

Madrid’s situation became challenging early in the 7th minute when Raul Asencio’s foul on Salomon Rondon resulted in a red card.

Xabi Alonso’s team took the lead in the 35th minute when Jude Bellingham, receiving a pass from Fran García, skillfully placed a low shot past Carlos Moreno from 15 yards.

The score was further improved in the 43rd minute by Arda Guler, who finished off a fluid Madrid play from inside the penalty area, assisted by Gonzalo Garcia’s square pass following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s initial cross.

Federico Valverde secured Alonso’s first victory as Madrid’s coach with a goal in the 70th minute. This win revitalizes their FIFA Club World Cup campaign after their previous 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal.

Madrid’s next challenge is against RB Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia, where a win or a draw will secure their spot in the round of 16.

Thibault Courtois played a crucial role, making 10 significant saves for the 15-time Champions League titleholders.

Pachuca maintained pressure, requiring Courtois to deflect Bryan Gonzalez’s early attempt over the bar and to safely handle John Kennedy’s long-range shot in the 61st minute.

Elías Montiel scored for the Mexican team in the 80th minute, but they could not mount a significant challenge against the Spanish side.

Meanwhile, in Washington, RB Salzburg and Al Hilal concluded their match with a scoreless draw.