MIAMI, USA – June 18, 2025 – The highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup 2025 officially kicked off today, with all eyes on European giants Real Madrid as they began their quest for another global title against Saudi Arabian champions Al-Hilal. The match, held at the iconic Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, marks a significant moment for both clubs and the tournament’s expanded format.
Xabi Alonso’s Debut and Team News
Much of the pre-match buzz has centered around the managerial debut of Xabi Alonso for Real Madrid. The former Real Madrid midfielder, who enjoyed a successful spell at Bayer Leverkusen, takes the helm of Los Blancos for the first time in a competitive fixture. All indications are that he’s looking to make an immediate impact.
Real Madrid’s squad features new faces, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen expected to make their competitive debuts. However, the Spanish club is grappling with several injury concerns. Star forward Kylian Mbappé is doubtful due to illness, and teenage sensation Endrick is ruled out. Key defenders like Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Ferland Mendy have traveled with the squad despite injuries, but their participation in this opening match remains uncertain. Antonio Rudiger is also nearing a return but is unlikely to feature. Despite these setbacks, Real Madrid’s formidable depth, featuring talents like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Arda Guler, makes them strong favorites.
Al-Hilal, under new manager Simone Inzaghi, also boasts a star-studded lineup with former European stalwarts such as Aleksandar Mitrović, Rúben Neves, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Yassine Bounou. Malcom and Salem Al-Dawsari provide attacking flair. While they are expected to put up a fight, they too have their own injury concerns with Malcom, Hamad Al-Yami, and Moteb Al-Hardbi sidelined.
Predictions and What to Expect
Pundits and fans alike are largely predicting a comfortable win for Real Madrid. The European champions, fresh off two recent Champions League titles (2021-22, 2023-24), are expected to dominate possession and create numerous scoring opportunities. Many predictions hover around a 3-1 or even 4-0 victory for Real Madrid, emphasizing their superior quality and experience.
However, Al-Hilal’s attacking prowess, particularly through Mitrović and Marcos Leonardo, means they are capable of troubling Real Madrid’s defense, which has shown vulnerabilities in the past. The tactical battle between Alonso’s fresh approach and Inzaghi’s influence will be fascinating to watch.
Live Updates and How to Watch
As the match unfolds, fans can follow live updates through various sports news outlets and dedicated streaming platforms. Kick-off is set for 3:00 PM ET (9:00 PM WIB locally here in Sukabumi). The game is being broadcast on TNT, TBS, and truTV in the United States, with streaming available on DAZN globally. In the UK, Channel 5 and DAZN UK are offering coverage.
Stay tuned for real-time scores, key moments, and in-depth analysis as Real Madrid and Al-Hilal battle it out in what promises to be an exciting start to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.
