Real Madrid began their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign on a strong note, defeating Mexican side Pachuca 3-1 in Charlotte, North Carolina. Xabi Alonso’s team took the lead with two goals before halftime from Arda Guler and Jude Bellingham, and sealed the victory with Fede Valverde’s late goal.
Pachuca started the match on a high, but Real Madrid’s defense held firm despite being reduced to 10 men after just seven minutes when Salomon Rondon was sent off. The Mexican side had several chances to equalize, including two powerful efforts from Kenedy and Alan Bautista, but goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois kept them at bay.
Real Madrid’s offense came alive in the second half, with Brahim Diaz and Fede Valverde scoring crucial goals to put the game out of reach for Pachuca. The Mexican side finally breached the goal line late on through Elias Montiel’s consolation effort, but it was too little, too late.
The win puts Real Madrid top of Group H, while Pachuca looks to pick up their first points in the competition this season with a match against Al-Hilal on Friday.
Source: https://www.tntsports.co.uk/football/club-world-cup/2025/live-real-madrid-pachuca_mtc1573528/live-commentary.shtml