Gonzalo García’s Star Rises as Real Madrid Edge Past Juventus in Club World Cup
Imagine this: a kid who hadn’t even started a senior game before this trip to the United States is now scoring goals like he was born for this stage. Against Juventus, with the pressure on and a spot in the last eight on the line, García rose highest in the 54th minute to head home a beautifully measured Trent Alexander-Arnold cross—his third goal of the tournament. One goal, one opportunity, and he seized it with absolute authority.
Even with Mbappé entering to roaring applause, looking to build his rhythm after a stomach virus sidelined him for weeks, it was García’s name on everyone’s lips by the final whistle. His leap, his header, his confidence—it all screamed that this was his moment. And honestly, he looks like he belongs.
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Head coach Xabi Alonso was glowing in his praise post-match. “I’m very pleased with him. He’s scoring, he’s working, and he’s making a real case for himself,” Alonso said, while also acknowledging the depth and growth of his squad, with players like Arda Güler, Federico Valverde, and Alexander-Arnold stepping up as well. He even admitted that García reminds him of a young Raúl—a comparison that García humbly welcomed, especially considering Raúl, his former Castilla coach, still messages him after every game.
The match itself had its tense moments. Juventus started strong, with Kenan Yildiz flashing brilliance and threatening early, linking up well with Cambiaso and Kolo Muani. But Real Madrid, once they found their rhythm, began to dominate possession and chances. Valverde was a machine in midfield, firing off seven shots and constantly pushing the tempo. Di Gregorio, Juventus’s keeper, was outstanding in goal, but even he couldn’t stop García’s thumping header.
Madrid’s performance wasn’t just about the goal—it was about how the team evolved throughout the match. Arda Güler continued to grow into his role as the central playmaker, and Alexander-Arnold, despite some rough moments defensively, delivered a decisive cross that made all the difference.
Real now advance to face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey. And while the headlines will continue to mention Mbappé, who is expected to hit full stride by the weekend, there’s no denying the emergence of a new Madrid star. Gonzalo García—remember the name. From Castilla record-breaker to Club World Cup hero, his rise feels real, and it’s only just beginning.
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