Real Madrid Held by Al-Hilal as Bounou Shines and Alonso's Era Begins with a Draw
So, let’s talk about that Club World Cup clash between Real Madrid and Al-Hilal — a match that was way more than just a routine opener. It ended 1-1, but there was plenty to unpack. Xabi Alonso made his debut as Real Madrid manager, and while the result might not have gone his way, the game offered some early signs of what his Madrid could become. But credit where it's due: Al-Hilal, under Simone Inzaghi, delivered a sharp, well-drilled performance that showed just how serious they are on the world stage.
Madrid struck first through young forward Gonzalo Garcia, who finished a clever team move that was born right after a cooling break where Alonso issued fresh tactical instructions. It was a glimpse into the impact Alonso hopes to have. But right before halftime, things shifted. A clumsy challenge from Raul Asencio gifted Al-Hilal a penalty, and Ruben Neves slotted it home calmly to make it 1-1.
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And then came the late drama. In the dying minutes of added time, Madrid won a controversial VAR-assisted penalty. Up stepped Federico Valverde, and in that moment, all eyes were on Yassine Bounou. And what a moment he delivered. Diving low to his right, Bounou saved Valverde’s poorly placed effort and then immediately sprang up to block the rebound. It was a match-saving double intervention, and perhaps the highlight of the night.
Trent Alexander-Arnold also made his Real Madrid debut, and let’s just say it wasn’t smooth sailing. Playing in a fluid backline that flipped between four and three defenders, Trent looked unsure defensively, often getting caught out of position — particularly under pressure from Al-Hilal’s standout attacker, Salem Al-Dawsari. The Saudi international was electric, constantly threatening and reminding everyone why he’s so highly respected, especially after that famous World Cup goal against Argentina in 2022.
As for Alonso’s Madrid, you could sense the beginnings of a tactical identity — a team trying to press, stay compact, and play with structure. But it’s clearly a work in progress. Alonso’s decision to sub off Asencio at half-time and bring on Arda Guler nearly paid off, with the young Turk rattling the crossbar shortly after entering. The potential is there, but Madrid still looked shaky in defence and disconnected in midfield at times.
Let’s not forget Inzaghi in all this. His move to Al-Hilal drew criticism back in Italy, especially after his turbulent end with Inter Milan. But tonight, his tactical imprint was clear. He’s already got his team playing cohesively, and players like Milinkovic-Savic and Joao Cancelo are clearly buying into the project. This was not a team of random stars — this was a team with shape, discipline, and a real game plan.
All in all, it was a statement performance by Al-Hilal and a reality check for Real Madrid. The Alonso era is just beginning, and while it wasn’t the dream start, it certainly wasn't a disaster either. There’s a long way to go — but the journey has well and truly begun.
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