Real Madrid Held by Al Hilal as Valverde Misses Late Penalty

Real Madrid were forced to settle for a 1–1 draw against Al Hilal in their opening match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, as Fede Valverde missed a last-minute penalty in a dramatic encounter under the Miami heat. The match also marked Xabi Alonso’s official debut as manager, with new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen making their first starts.

Gonzalo García Scores, Neves Responds

Madrid struck first in the 34th minute when Gonzalo García calmly finished off a flowing move started by Rodrygo. The 19-year-old midfielder showed composure beyond his years to give Los Blancos the early advantage.

However, Al Hilal struck back just seven minutes later. A clumsy foul on Marcos Leonardo led to a penalty, and Rúben Neves made no mistake from the spot, firing past Thibaut Courtois to equalize before the break.

Debuts and Tactical Setup Under Xabi Alonso

New manager Xabi Alonso opted for a possession-heavy setup similar to his Bayer Leverkusen days, with Alexander-Arnold drifting into midfield from right-back and Huijsen anchoring the defense.

Both debutants looked solid, with Alexander-Arnold contributing to the build-up for Madrid’s opener and Huijsen demonstrating calm passing from the back. However, Madrid’s finishing and creative output still lacked sharpness, an issue Alonso will look to correct in training.

Valverde’s Missed Penalty Seals the Draw

In second-half stoppage time, Fran García was fouled in the box and Madrid were awarded a penalty after a brief VAR check. Fede Valverde stepped up but was denied by a superb save from Bono, sealing a draw that left Madrid fans frustrated.

It was a golden opportunity to snatch victory, but Bono’s heroics ensured Al Hilal, coached by Simone Inzaghi, left with a deserved point.

Match Highlights

• Real Madrid 1–1 Al Hilal
• Scorers: Gonzalo García (34′), Rúben Neves (41′ pen)
• Missed Penalty: Fede Valverde (90+2′)
• Debuts: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen
• Weather: 33°C heat with multiple cooling breaks

Tactical Takeaways

• Madrid’s control was evident but lacked a killer instinct in the final third
• Al Hilal showed structure and resilience, earning their point
• Debuts were promising: both Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen looked composed
• Xabi Alonso’s system is clearly in transition, blending control with vertical intent

What’s Next?

Real Madrid will now face Pachuca in their next group match, needing a win to remain in control of their Club World Cup path.
Al Hilal take on Red Bull Salzburg, buoyed by this strong showing against one of Europe’s elite.

 
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