Real Madrid began their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 journey with a frustrating draw against Al-Hilal. Next up, they face Mexican side Pachuca, who are eager to recover after an opening loss to Red Bull Salzburg. The pressure is on for Pachuca to secure a victory against āLos Merenguesā to keep their tournament hopes alive.
Real Madrid, under newly appointed head coach Xabi Alonso, must tackle injury challenges as they prepare for the clash. Alonso is exploring roster options, integrating young talents and seasoned stars alike. Forward Gonzalo Garcia, who netted Real Madridās sole goal thus far, exemplifies the depth that Alonso is tapping into.
Conversely, Pachuca enter the match with a full squad available. Key players Agustin Palavecino and Salomon Rondon are slated to start, reinforcing Pachucaās attacking lineup. Following their defeat to Salzburg, Pachuca must amend earlier mistakes to stay in contention for advancement.
Real Madrid confirmed lineup vs Pachuca
With Kylian Mbappe sidelined due to a gastrointestinal issue and Endrick out with a pre-tournament injury, Alonso will make a few changes to the lineup, benching Rodrygo to make room for Arda Guler.
Real Madridās confirmed starting XI vs. Pachuca: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raul Asencio, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia; Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham; Gonzalo, Vinicius Jr.
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Real Madrid vs Pachuca LIVE: Jude Bellingham gives 10-man Spanish side the lead at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025! (1-0)
Pachucaās confirmed starting 11 vs Real Madrid
Except for Anderson Micolta, who remains out due to an injury sustained months prior, Pachuca have almost a fully healthy squad. Manager Jaime Lozano, who took charge in late May, is banking on consistency with his selection in this matchup in the Club World Cup, although this time Alan Bautista will get to play from the get-go.
Pachucaās confirmed lineup: Carlos Moreno; Luis Rodriguez, Eduardo Bauermann, Federico Pereira, Bryan Gonzalez; Alan Bautista, Elias Montiel, Agustin Palavecino; Alexei Dominguez, Salomon Rondon, Kenedy.
