The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off with mixed fortunes for European giants as Real Madrid were held 1-1 by Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal in Xabi Alonso’s managerial debut, while Manchester City secured a comfortable 2-0 win over Wydad Casablanca.
Alonso’s Real Madrid Frustrated in Miami
In front of a vibrant crowd of 62,415 at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, Real Madrid failed to capitalize on their dominance against a resilient Al-Hilal side. New signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen made their debuts, but the absence of Kylian Mbappé loomed large as Los Blancos struggled for fluency.
Youngster Gonzalo García broke the deadlock in the 31st minute, slotting home from Rodrygo’s assist, but Al-Hilal responded before halftime through Ruben Neves’ penalty after Raúl Asencio’s foul.
The Spanish giants had a golden chance to snatch victory in stoppage time when Fran García was fouled in the box, but Federico Valverde’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Yassine Bounou.
“We had the chances to win, but we must improve,” admitted Alonso post-match. “The second half was better, but we’re still building.”
Man City Start Strong in Philadelphia
Meanwhile, Manchester City began their campaign with a routine 2-0 victory over Wydad Casablanca in sweltering conditions at Lincoln Financial Field. Phil Foden needed just two minutes to open the scoring, pouncing on a rebound after Savinho’s cross, before Jérémy Doku doubled the lead before halftime from a Foden corner.
Pep Guardiola handed debuts to midfielders Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, though the win was slightly marred by Rico Lewis’ late red card for a reckless challenge.
“The heat made it tough, but we controlled the game,” said Guardiola. “New players are settling in, and this win is a good foundation.”
Up Next in the Tournament
Later on Wednesday, Juventus face UAE’s Al Ain in Washington, while Mexico’s Pachuca take on Austria’s Red Bull Salzburg in Cincinnati.
Real Madrid will look to bounce back against Pachuca, while City next meet Al Ain in Atlanta—with Guardiola hinting at squad rotation.
Stay tuned for more Club World Cup updates!
