‘Same Mistake Twice!’ – Courtois Calls Out Asencio After Early Red Card Against Pachuca

Real Madrid overcame adversity to defeat Pachuca 3–1 in their second Group H match of the FIFA Club World Cup, but the spotlight fell squarely on 21-year-old defender Raul Asencio, who was sent off just seven minutes into the game earning the fastest red card in intercontinental club competition history.

Asencio brought down Solomon Rondon while trying to prevent a clear goal-scoring opportunity, leaving Madrid with ten men early on for the second consecutive match. The incident echoed his previous outing, where another reckless challenge had put the team under pressure. Veteran goalkeeper T. Courtois didn’t hold back his frustration.

“It’s two games and the same kind of mistake happened both times,” Courtois said at halftime. “We have to be smarter and avoid making those errors.”

Despite the early dismissal, Real Madrid responded with resilience. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring in the 35th minute, capitalizing on a quick counter-attack. Just before halftime, Ader. Guler added a second with a composed finish. Fede Valverde put the result beyond doubt with a third goal in the 67th minute. Pachuca managed a consolation goal late through E. Montiel, but it wasn’t enough to threaten the outcome.

Courtois, who made ten crucial saves during the match, was pivotal in keeping Madrid ahead despite being a man down. Still, he balanced his criticism with a message of solidarity for Asencio:

“He knows it, there’s no problem. We’re going to fight for him and win without him. And when he returns, we’ll win together.”

Asencio will now miss Real Madrid’s final group stage match against Red Bull Salzburg due to suspension, and coach Xabi Alonso will once again be forced to reshuffle his defensive line.

After the match, Bellingham also weighed in, shifting the focus from individual blame to collective responsibility.

“It was a mistake by all of us… we knew how to adjust and turn the situation around,” said the England international.

With the win, Real Madrid sit atop Group H and look well-positioned to qualify for the knockout rounds. However, Asencio’s future role in the squad remains uncertain. Courtois’ comments reflect both frustration and mentorship signaling that while the standards at Madrid are high, there is still room for growth and redemption.

 
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