The FIFA Club World Cup heats up as Real Madrid begin a new chapter under Xabi Alonso, taking on Saudi giants Al Hilal—now coached by Simone Inzaghi—at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida this Wednesday.

Real Madrid enter the tournament looking to bounce back from a trophy-light season under Carlo Ancelotti, who has since left to manage the Brazil national team. The arrival of Alonso marks a fresh tactical era, with the Spanish legend returning to the club where he once starred as a player. His success with Bayer Leverkusen—where he dethroned Bayern Munich to win the Bundesliga—has raised expectations in Madrid.

Al Hilal, on the other hand, are aiming to make a strong impression under new boss Simone Inzaghi. After a disappointing Champions League final with Inter Milan, Inzaghi is eager to reset and compete at the highest level with the Saudi outfit. Al Hilal will rely on their experienced core, featuring Aleksandar Mitrović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Rúben Neves, to challenge the Spanish side.

Predicted Lineups

Al Hilal (3-5-2):
Bono; Tambuti, koulibaly, al-bulayhi; Cancelo, Kanno, Neves, Milinkovic-Savic, Al-Dawsari; Malcom, Mitrovic

Real Madrid (4-4-2):
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Huijsen, García; Güler, Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior

Match Prediction

Real Madrid’s attacking firepower and tactical flexibility under Alonso make them the favourites. However, Al Hilal have the squad depth and quality to spring a surprise. Expect a competitive clash, but Real Madrid are tipped to win 2-1advancing further in their quest for Club World Cup glory.