Mbappe Returns as Real Madrid Advances to Club World Cup Quarter-finals

Kylian Mbappe finally returned to the pitch as Real Madrid defeated Juventus 1-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 in Miami, according to match reports.

The French striker — who was absent due to acute gastroenteritis — received a hero’s welcome from Madrid supporters when entering the field in the second half, with chants of “Mbappe, Mbappe” echoing throughout Hard Rock Stadium.

Gonzalo García became the match hero by scoring the winning goal in the 54th minute through an accurate cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold — who recorded his first assist for his new club.

Juventus struggled against Madrid’s dominance, with goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio repeatedly saving his goal from attacks by Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Dean Huijsen, and Arda Güler.

Madrid’s new coach, Xabi Alonso, emphasized that Mbappe — who scored 43 goals in 56 matches last season — must work together with the team like other players.

Real Madrid will face either Monterrey or Borussia Dortmund in the quarter-finals to be held in New Jersey this weekend.