By Aaron 
In a thrilling Club World Cup encounter, Real Madrid proved once again why they remain one of football’s most adaptable and resilient teams but this time under Xabi Alonso.
Facing off against Pachuca, Madrid secured a commanding 3–1 victory, despite playing the majority of the match with ten men. It was a performance shaped by grit, patience, and tactical intelligence, perfectly orchestrated by new head coach Xabi Alonso.
A Red Card and a Test of Character
The match began with drama, as Madrid found themselves a man down within the opening ten minutes. Defender Raúl Asencio was shown a straight red card for a last-man foul, leaving Madrid with ten players and more than 80 minutes to survive against a determined Pachuca side. Many teams would crumble under such early pressure, but not this Madrid side under Alonso’s guidance.
Instead of panic, Alonso reorganized the team structure immediately. The midfield dropped deeper, the defensive line compacted, and pressing became more calculated. Madrid’s tactical discipline allowed them to absorb Pachuca’s early energy without conceding.
Madrid Strike First: Bellingham Shows His Class
Despite the numerical disadvantage, Madrid remained dangerous on the counter. In the 35th minute, the breakthrough arrived. Midfield dynamo Jude Bellingham found himself in space at the edge of the box after a clever pass from Fran García. With a single touch to control and a second to shoot, Bellingham unleashed a low drive into the corner of the net. It was a moment of brilliance that gave Madrid the confidence to push on.
Arda Güler Doubles the Lead Before the Break
Madrid were not done yet. Just before the half-time whistle, a fluid team move saw young star Arda Güler finish off a well-worked chance, slotting the ball into the bottom right corner after a short exchange with Gonzalo García. The goal came at a perfect time, putting Madrid 2–0 up and deflating Pachuca’s momentum heading into the break.
Alonso’s System in Full Control
The second half saw Xabi Alonso tighten Madrid’s formation into a compact 4-4-1, using the pace of his wide men and the intelligence of his midfielders to keep the game under control. With Federico Valverde and Brahim Díaz playing vital roles in maintaining possession and closing down spaces, Madrid looked less like a team missing a man and more like one with extra resolve.
In the 70th minute, Madrid made it three. A swift break down the right saw Brahim Díaz cut inside and deliver a low cross into the box. Valverde, arriving late from midfield, tucked the ball home with precision, effectively sealing the victory.
Pachuca Grab a Late Consolation
To their credit, Pachuca continued to fight and were eventually rewarded in the 80th minute with a deflected goal. A long-range shot from Elías Montiel took a wicked deflection off a Madrid defender, wrong-footing the goalkeeper and bouncing into the net. It reduced the deficit to 3–1, but it was little more than a consolation at that stage.
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Xabi Alonso’s Tactical Masterclass
What stood out most in this match was the composure and clarity of Alonso’s tactical response. With ten men, he managed to maintain Madrid’s identity—disciplined at the back, composed in midfield, and lethal in transition. His substitutions were timely, and his players followed the plan with near perfection.
This performance was not just about winning a group stage match—it was a message to the football world that Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso is a team capable of adapting, evolving, and thriving even in adversity. The early red card, rather than weakening the team, became a turning point that revealed their character and unity.
With this win, Madrid take a significant step forward in the Club World Cup. Their next test will come against tougher opposition, but if this performance is anything to go by, they are more than ready. For Pachuca, lessons will be learned, and their journey in the competition continues.
