Real Madrid Edges Juventus, Advances to Club World Cup Quarterfinals
Real Madrid defeats Juventus 1-0 in the FIFA Club World Cup, advancing to the quarterfinals with a goal from Gonzalo Garcia.
Real Madrid secured a 1-0 win over Juventus, advancing to the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals with a goal from Garcia. This victory extended their unbeaten streak in the tournament to 14 matches.
Under Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid has made a strong start, with back-to-back wins showcasing their credentials. The team faced a stern test against Juventus but proved their mettle, earning a hard-fought victory.
Gonzalo GarcÃa’s strike the difference as @RealMadrid book their ticket to the next round! 🎟️#FIFACWC
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) July 1, 2025
The early tempo was intense, with Real Madrid pinned deep in their own half within the opening 10 minutes. Juventus nearly capitalized when Randal Kolo Muani broke clear on goal, but his audacious chip over Thibaut Courtois sailed over the crossbar.
Real Madrid escaped further trouble moments later when Kenan Yıldız's long-range strike took a wicked deflection off Aurélien Tchouaméni, narrowly whistling wide of the post. The close calls had Alonso's side on edge, but they managed to weather the early storm.
Wonderful performance by @fedeevalverde! #SuperiorPlayeroftheMatch#SuperiorisWorthPlayingFor@michelobultra @playformichelob pic.twitter.com/xK0AuLlhcZ
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) July 1, 2025
It wasn't until the 30-minute mark that Real Madrid created a promising chance. Jude Bellingham led the charge, bursting past the Juventus defense, but Michele Di Gregorio made a crucial save on Bellingham's poked effort, and Daniele Rugani cleared the ball off the line.
Di Gregorio's reflexes were put to the test again on the stroke of halftime when he leapt across his goal to deny Federico Valverde's 30-yard strike, turning the ball around the post with an incredible save. The athleticism and agility displayed by Di Gregorio in both instances were key in keeping Juventus in the game.
Federico Valverde had the first meaningful chance of the second half, reacting quickly to a loose ball in the box and curling his effort just wide of the target. However, this brief respite for Juventus was short-lived.
Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered a trademark cross that Gonzalo Garcia met with a decisive header, giving Real Madrid the lead. The English right-back, still settling into his new role as a Galactico, looked impressive in the buildup, showcasing his quality.
The Real Madrid players' celebrations continued as they welcomed back Kylian Mbappé, who made his tournament debut after recovering from acute gastroenteritis. Mbappé's impact was immediate, setting up Arda Güler with a precise pass, although Güler's low shot was blocked by Michele Di Gregorio's legs.
GarcÃa 💥@RealMadrid | #FIFACWC pic.twitter.com/9pvLpuxcBg
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) July 1, 2025
Despite Di Gregorio's impressive saves, Juventus couldn't find the equalizer and were eliminated in the Round of 16 on their Club World Cup debut. The Italian side's efforts weren't enough to overcome the deficit, and they exited the tournament without a goal.
Real Madrid have now advanced to the quarterfinals, riding a wave of momentum with a seven-match unbeaten streak in all competitions. Their form looks promising as they head into the next stage of the tournament.
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