FIFA Club World Cup: Madrid Defeats Pachuca 3-1 Despite Early Red Card

Real Madrid secured a 3-1 win over Pachuca in the FIFA Club World Cup despite playing with 10 men for most of the match. Read more about the game.

Real Madrid came from behind to beat Pachuca 3-1, with Xabi Alonso notching his first win despite the team playing with 10 men for most of the match.

Pachuca, considered heavy underdogs, had little chance against European giants Real Madrid, and their loss extends their winless streak to three games against European teams in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Pachuca's hopes of an upset grew when Salomon Rondon was fouled by Real Madrid's Raul Asencio in the opening 10 minutes, earning the defender a red card.

The Mexican side quickly created their first big chance, with a swift counterattack that led to a double save from Thibaut Courtois, denying Kenedy and then Alan Bautista on the rebound.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Real Madrid took the lead against the run of play. Jude Bellingham's smart run was finished by Fran Garcia, who arrowed a left-footed shot into the bottom corner.

Before halftime, Real Madrid extended their lead with a well-worked goal, finished by Arda Guler after a move involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gonzalo Garcia.

After the break, Pachuca dominated with their man advantage and nearly scored when Salomon Rondon directed Federico Pereira's header just inches wide of the post.

3 goals. ✅
3 points. ✅@realmadrid show their strength at the #FIFACWC 💪

— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 22, 2025

Pachuca's chances of a comeback vanished 20 minutes from time when Real Madrid sealed the win with a counterattack. Brahim Diaz's cross was tapped in by Federico Valverde, putting the game out of reach.

Pachuca managed a consolation goal, but it came with a bit of luck as Elias Montiel's shot deflected off Aurelien Tchouameni's leg and into the net.

The goal was mere consolation for Pachuca, who are now confirmed to be eliminated from the Club World Cup.

For Real Madrid, this win under Xabi Alonso boosts their chances of advancing, but they still have work ahead to secure top spot in the group.