Al-Hilal Stun Real Madrid in Miami Heat as European Giants Escape With Lucky Draw

Saudi Side Dominate Club World Cup Clash as Courtois & VAR Save Los Blancos’ Blushes

Under the scorching Miami sun, Real Madrid were fortunate to salvage a 1-1 draw against a relentless Al-Hilal side in their FIFA Club World Cup opener, with the Saudi Arabian outfit outplaying the 15-time European champions for large stretches at Hard Rock Stadium.

A Night of Frustration for Madrid

Xabi Alonso’s managerial debut for Madrid got off to a shaky start as Al-Hilal carved open the Spanish giants repeatedly in the first half. Thibaut Courtois was forced into early heroics, tipping away a fierce Sergej Milinkovic-Savic strike before Ruben Neves rattled the stands with a thunderous long-range effort.

The breakthrough finally came against the run of play when 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia tapped in Rodrygo’s cross—only for Neves to coolly level from the penalty spot after Raul Asencio’s clumsy shirt pull on Marcos Leonardo.

Missed Chances & VAR Drama

Al-Hilal should have led before halftime, with Milinkovic-Savic curling inches wide, while Leonardo wasted two golden opportunities after the break—firing into the side netting before blazing over from close range.

Madrid thought they’d stolen victory late when VAR awarded a controversial penalty for a high boot on Fran Garcia, but Bono’s superb save denied Fede Valverde, ensuring a deserved share of the spoils for the Saudi Pro League side.

Alexander-Arnold’s Quiet Debut

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first appearance in white lasted just 65 minutes before being hooked, struggling to influence the game in Miami’s sweltering 30°C heat.

What’s Next?

While Madrid escaped with a point, Alonso has work to do ahead of their next match. For Al-Hilal, this performance proved they can mix it with the world’s best—and they’ll rue not leaving Florida with all three points.

Final Thought: On this evidence, Real Madrid’s quest for a sixth Club World Cup title won’t be straightforward.

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