Real Madrid secured a 3-1 victory over Mexican side Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, marking Xabi Alonso’s first win as manager. Despite going down to 10 men in the opening minutes, the Spanish giants showed their class to earn three valuable points and boost their chances of reaching the knockout stages.
Pachuca came into this clash having never beaten European opposition in the FIFA Club World Cup. Although considered underdogs, they were handed an unexpected lifeline early on that changed the flow of the match entirely.
Match Summary: Real Madrid vs Pachuca
- Match: Real Madrid vs Pachuca
- Date: June 22, 2025
- Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025
- Result: Real Madrid 3-1 Pachuca
- Venue: King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah
- Real Madrid Goals:
- Jude Bellingham (23′)
- Arda Guler (44′)
- Federico Valverde (70′)
- Pachuca Goal:
- Elias Montiel (84′, deflected off Tchouameni)
- Red Card:
- Raul Asencio (Real Madrid, 8′) – last-man foul on Salomon Rondon
- Man of the Match: Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)
- Notable Incident:
- Antonio Rüdiger subjected to racist abuse from Pachuca fans
- FIFA has officially opened an investigation into the incident
Down to 10 Men, But Still in Command
The match took a dramatic turn inside the first 10 minutes when Madrid defender Raul Asencio was shown a straight red card. Asencio brought down Salomon Rondon, who was through on goal, leaving Madrid with 10 men for almost the entire match.
Despite being a man down, Real Madrid stayed composed. Thibaut Courtois produced two outstanding saves, denying Kenedy and Alan Bautista from close range to keep Pachuca at bay.
Then, against the run of play, Madrid struck. Fran Garcia delivered a clever ball to Jude Bellingham, who calmly finished with his left foot into the bottom corner. That goal gave Real Madrid a surprising 1-0 lead.
Just before the break, Real Madrid doubled their advantage. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gonzalo Garcia linked up beautifully on the right, and Arda Guler applied the finishing touch to make it 2-0 at halftime — a testament to Madrid’s efficiency and quality under pressure.
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Rüdiger Faces Racist Abuse During Match
While Madrid’s on-field performance was commanding, the night was marred by a serious off-field incident involving Antonio Rüdiger. Midway through the first half, the German defender was seen visibly agitated and pointed toward the stands while speaking to the referee.
It was later revealed that Rüdiger had been subjected to racist abuse from a section of Pachuca supporters. The Real Madrid player, known for his resilience and leadership, was understandably shaken by the incident. Match officials documented the complaint, and FIFA has confirmed that an investigation is now underway.
The club and international football community have since condemned the abuse, with many calling for strict sanctions and stronger measures to combat racism in football.
Valverde’s Goal Secures Victory as Pachuca Crash Out
In the second half, Pachuca came out strong, hoping to take advantage of their extra man. Their best chance came when Federico Pereira’s header found Rondon, who couldn’t convert from close range.
Real Madrid, however, continued to look dangerous on the counterattack. In the 70th minute, Brahim Diaz curled in a teasing ball that Federico Valverde managed to prod home with a stretched leg. The goal sealed the game, putting Madrid 3-0 up and effectively ending Pachuca’s hopes.
Pachuca did manage a consolation goal in the 84th minute when Elias Montiel’s shot took a deflection off Aurelien Tchouameni and beat Courtois. But it was too little, too late.
The final whistle confirmed Real Madrid’s first win of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and Pachuca’s elimination. For Xabi Alonso, it was a strong tactical debut — guiding his side through a high-pressure situation with composure and clinical execution.
FAQ
Who scored for Real Madrid against Pachuca in CWC 2025?
Jude Bellingham, Arda Guler, and Federico Valverde scored the goals for Real Madrid.
Who was sent off for Real Madrid?
Raul Asencio received a red card in the 8th minute.
Who was the Man of the Match?
Federico Valverde was named Flashscore Man of the Match.
What does this win mean for Real Madrid in the tournament?
It boosts their chances from the group stage and marks Xabi Alonso’s first win as head coach.
Is Pachuca eliminated from the Club World Cup 2025?
Yes, this loss confirms Pachuca’s elimination from the competition.