Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi giants Al-Hilal in their opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, as Federico Valverde saw a stoppage-time penalty saved and Trent Alexander-Arnold’s debut ended in frustration.
Valverde had the chance to snatch all three points for the 15-time European champions after a VAR review awarded a late penalty for a flailing arm by Mohammed Al-Qahtani on Fran Garcia.
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But Al-Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou produced a stunning save in the 92nd minute to deny the Spaniards a dramatic win at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
Earlier, 21-year-old Gonzalo Garcia had given Real Madrid a fortunate lead in the 33rd minute, lifting the ball over Bounou at the end of a swift counterattack. However, the goal came largely against the run of play, with Al-Hilal dominating early possession and creating several chances.
Al-Hilal, now managed by Simone Inzaghi in his first match since leaving Inter Milan, deservedly equalised before halftime. Former Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves calmly converted a penalty after Real defender Raul Asencio dragged Marcos Leonardo in the box.
In the second half, Real pushed for a winner, with Arda Guler rattling the crossbar and Garcia forcing a superb save from Bounou with a powerful header.
But the Spanish side’s backline, featuring debutant Alexander-Arnold and new £50 million centre-back Dean Huijsen, looked shaky throughout.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, also making his debut in the dugout after replacing Carlo Ancelotti, was without star forward Kylian Mbappe, and his absence was felt in the attack.
Real Madrid will now look to regroup ahead of their next Group F match as they aim to extend their record Club World Cup title.
