Real Madrid vs Pachuca AS IT Happened, FIFA Club World Cup 2025:Jude Bellingham and Arda GÜler struck late in the first half to guide 10-man Real Madrid to a 3-1 win over Pachuca in their Group H encounter, held in scorching temperatures in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Federico Valverde added a third with a well-timed sliding volley in the 70th minute, securing Xabi Alonso's maiden victory as Real Madrid head coach. The Mexican side did get a goal towards to end earn some consolation.

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Neither side made an ideal start to their tournament run in the United States. Real Madrid, under the guidance of new head coach Xabi Alonso, were held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi club Al Hilal in their opening group game. The result left Madrid fans disappointed, especially after a bright start that quickly lost momentum. For Alonso, it was a mixed debut on the touchline, highlighting both the potential and the areas still in need of improvement.

Meanwhile, Pachuca endured a tough outing in their first match, falling to a 2-1 defeat against Austrian side RB Salzburg. The Liga MX outfit now finds itself in a must-win situation to keep alive their hopes of advancing to the round of 16.

Madrid will take confidence from their previous meeting with Pachuca - a dominant 3-0 victory in the Intercontinental Cup final in December. That match showcased the Spanish side's attacking strength and defensive discipline. However, with a few key players unavailable due to injury and Kylian Mbappe still sidelined due to gastroenteritis, Madrid may have to rely on squad depth to secure their first win of the tournament.

Pachuca, on the other hand, will be keen to turn the tables and seek revenge for that December defeat. With elimination looming, they'll be motivated to push for all three points, knowing that anything less could send them packing.

With qualification on the line, both teams are expected to come out with urgency and intensity. The clash in Charlotte could be decisive in shaping the fate of Group A - and possibly serve as a turning point in both clubs' tournament journeys.