The FIFA Club World Cup is underway, and while Manchester City eased through their opening game, it wasn’t smooth sailing for Real Madrid, who were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Al Hilal.
The tournament is already delivering drama, goals, and some big surprises.
Xabi Alonso’s Debut with Real Ends in Frustration
All eyes were on new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso as he took charge of his first match in Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
In front of more than 62,000 fans, Madrid couldn’t hold on to their early lead and ended up sharing the points with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
Despite Gonzalo Garcia giving Real the lead just after the half-hour mark—stepping up in place of an ill Kylian Mbappe—Al Hilal hit back quickly.
Ruben Neves slotted home a penalty after Raul Asencio conceded a foul in the box.
Madrid had a golden chance to snatch a win in stoppage time when they were awarded a penalty for a hand to the face of Fran Garcia.
But Federico Valverde’s effort was denied by Yassine Bounou, leaving Alonso’s first match in charge without a win.
Man City Cruise Past Wydad Casablanca
Over in Philadelphia, Manchester City made a confident start to their Club World Cup journey.
Phil Foden shined once again—scoring within two minutes and setting up the second goal from a corner, converted by Jeremy Doku.
Despite a late red card for Rico Lewis due to a rough challenge, Pep Guardiola seemed pleased with his side’s performance.
He admitted the hot and humid weather wasn’t easy to play in, but praised the new signings and overall team effort.
With several players returning from injury and new faces in the squad, Pep hinted at rotating the team heavily for their next match against Al Ain in Atlanta.
Juventus Show No Mercy Against Al Ain
Juventus made the biggest statement of the night with a dominant 5-0 demolition of UAE side Al Ain in Washington, D.C.
The Italians had earlier visited the White House and gifted former U.S. President Donald Trump a club jersey, then took that energy straight to the pitch.
Randal Kolo Muani and Francisco Conceicao both netted braces, while Kenan Yildiz also got on the scoresheet.
Juventus now sit top of their group and look every bit like title contenders.
Salzburg Weather the Storm in Cincinnati
RB Salzburg managed to squeeze past Mexican side Pachuca 2-1 in a bizarre match that was interrupted for more than an hour and a half due to a storm.
After taking the lead, the Austrian team had to wait 97 minutes for the second half to resume before holding on for the win.
More Star Power on the Way
The next round of group matches promises even more fireworks.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will take on Porto, while European giants Paris Saint-Germain face Brazilian side Botafogo.
With this mix of global talent, drama, and surprise results, the Club World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tournaments of the year.
So, who are you rooting for in this year’s Club World Cup? Let the games begin.