Real Madrid overcame adversity to secure a crucial win. Despite going down to 10 men early on, they beat Pachuca 3-1 in hot and humid conditions.
The FIFA Club World Cup Group H match was played on Sunday in Charlotte, North Carolina. The victory got Real Madrid’s campaign back on track after a frustrating draw in their opening match.
Early Red Card Shakes Real Madrid’s Game Plan
Real Madrid (1.27) were dealt a major blow just seven minutes into the match. Defender Raúl Asencio was shown a straight red card for bringing down Salomón Rondón. The referee judged it to be a clear goal-scoring opportunity just outside the penalty box.
This forced Madrid into a defensive shape for most of the first half. Yet, the Spanish giants kept their composure. They absorbed the pressure and struck twice before half-time to turn the game around.
Bellingham and Güler Strike Before Half-Time
Against the run of play, Madrid took the lead in the 35th minute. Fran García delivered a perfect ball after a clever flick-on by Gonzalo García. Jude Bellingham made a late run into the box and calmly slotted the ball past Carlos Moreno from 15 yards.
Then, in the 43rd minute, Real Madrid doubled their advantage. A sharp passing move began with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s first-touch cross. Gonzalo García teed up Arda Güler, who finished expertly from inside the area.
These two goals gave Madrid control despite being a man down. It was a reminder of the quality in their squad, particularly in their counterattacks.
Pachuca Fail to Capitalise on Chances
Pachuca created numerous opportunities but failed to capitalise on them. They had 25 shots compared to Madrid’s 8. Of those, 11 were on target. In contrast, Real Madrid managed just three efforts on target but made them count.
Thibault Courtois was instrumental in keeping Madrid ahead. The Belgian goalkeeper made 10 saves, many of them in critical moments. He was eventually beaten in the 80th minute by a deflected strike from Elias Montiel.
Even with superior numbers and more shots, Pachuca were again left to rue their missed chances. It was their second loss in the group after falling 2-1 to RB Salzburg earlier in the week.
Valverde Seals Real Madrid Victory with Stunning Volley
Real Madrid extended their lead in the 70th minute through Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan midfielder timed his run perfectly to meet a loose ball and scored with a superb sliding volley.
The goal ended any realistic hope of a Pachuca comeback. It also marked Xabi Alonso’s first win as Madrid manager. The former midfielder is off to a positive start in his new role, despite the challenges.
Valverde’s strike showed Madrid’s ability to deliver moments of brilliance even under pressure. That ability often makes the difference in tight games like this one.
Difficult Conditions in Charlotte
The match was played in sweltering heat, with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. The venue, Bank of America Stadium, is normally home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. A temporary grass pitch was installed for the Club World Cup fixture.
Due to the extreme heat, players were given water breaks midway through each half. The conditions made the match more gruelling, particularly for Madrid after the early red card. Still, they managed their energy well and showed resilience.
Matches in such heat are always unpredictable. Yet, Real Madrid’s discipline and finishing proved decisive once again.
What This Means for Real Madrid
With this result, Real Madrid now have four points from two matches. A win or draw against RB Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia will secure their place in the last 16.
Pachuca, on the other hand, have been eliminated. Despite their attacking efforts, two straight losses leave them bottom of Group H with zero points. Their focus now turns to domestic competitions.
Later on Sunday, Al Hilal face Salzburg in Washington. That result could further shape the group standings. Madrid’s path to the knockout stage remains in their own hands.
Real Madrid’s Attack Shows Depth and Efficiency
This match highlighted the depth of Real Madrid’s attacking options. Even with one player fewer, they scored three well-worked goals. Each goal came from a different attacking pattern, showing tactical flexibility.
Gonzalo García was involved in two of the three goals. His link-up play proved crucial. Bellingham and Güler also stepped up, showcasing why they are so highly rated.
In online sports betting, Madrid’s odds to win the Club World Cup have shortened after this performance. Despite early struggles, they have found their rhythm just in time.
Final Thoughts
Real Madrid showed grit, class, and precision to defeat Pachuca 3-1. Their comeback was a statement of intent. The result puts them in a strong position to advance and possibly challenge for the title.
Pachuca played with heart but lacked a clinical edge. Real Madrid, even when under pressure, found a way to win. That’s what champions do.
