Sun Jun 22 21:37:23 UTC 2025: **Real Madrid Stuns Pachuca with 3-1 Victory Despite Early Red Card, Alonso Celebrates First Win**
**CHARLOTTE, NC –** Real Madrid secured a remarkable 3-1 victory over Pachuca in Group H of the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday, defying the odds after playing the majority of the match with only 10 players. The win marked Xabi Alonso’s first as manager of the Spanish giants.
The game, played in sweltering conditions in Charlotte, took a dramatic turn early on when Raul Asencio was shown a straight red card in the 7th minute for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Despite being a man down, Real Madrid showcased resilience and clinical finishing.
Jude Bellingham, later named player of the match, opened the scoring in the 35th minute, followed by a goal from Arda Guler just before halftime, giving Real Madrid a surprising 2-0 lead. Federico Valverde added a third in the 70th minute with a stunning volley, effectively sealing the victory.
Pachuca managed a late consolation goal through a deflected effort from Elias Montiel in the 80th minute, but it wasn’t enough to derail Real Madrid’s momentum. Despite dominating possession and outshooting Madrid 25-8, Pachuca couldn’t convert their chances against a resolute Madrid defense and an in-form Thibault Courtois, who made an impressive 10 saves.
“We stayed together well [after the red card],” said Bellingham after the game. “It was impressive to see how the team came together and won the game.”
Alonso praised Courtois’ performance, stating, “We are so happy to have [Courtois] in goal. He was so reliable, especially when we had one player less. We defended with a lot of sacrifice and waited for our chances.”
With this win, Real Madrid puts their FIFA Club World Cup campaign back on track after a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal. They can secure a spot in the last 16 with a win or draw against RB Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia.
In other Club World Cup action, Juventus defeated Wydad Casablanca 4-1, led by a brace from Kenan Yildiz.
First Piper 