Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid debut ends in draw at FIFA Club World Cup

Xabi Alonso began his tenure as Real Madrid coach with a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in the opening match of Group H at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami.

Los Blancos took the lead through academy player Gonzalo Garcia — but the advantage was canceled out by Ruben Neves from the penalty spot.

The match also marked Simone Inzaghi’s debut as Al Hilal coach. A golden opportunity to win the game came for Madrid in injury time when Fran Garcia was fouled in the penalty box, but captain Federico Valverde’s execution was saved by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou.

“This result falls short of our expectations. We had a chance to win at the end, but failed to capitalize on it,” said Alonso.