Xabi Alonso era begins as Real Madrid clash with Al-Hilal in Club World Cup opener

Real Madrid kick off their latest FIFA Club World Cup campaign under the leadership of new manager Xabi Alonso as the five-time winners prepare to face Saudi Arabian giants Al-Hilal. 

The matchup is a repeat of the 2022 CWC final, where Madrid emerged victorious in a thrilling 5-3 contest. This time, both sides arrive with fresh managerial appointments and a point to prove, raising expectations for another high-octane encounter.

Los Blancos made headlines in the early June transfer window, showing their intent by replacing Carlo Ancelotti with Alonso and securing the services of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. They also reinforced their injury-hit defense by bringing in Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. 

After missing out on the La Liga title to Barcelona, Madrid ended their domestic campaign with four wins from five and consecutive clean sheets—form that suggests they’re heading into the tournament with growing confidence.

Al-Hilal, like their Spanish opponents, finished second in their domestic league, eight points behind Al-Ittihad. Despite that, the Saudi side ended their season on a high, going unbeaten in their final five league matches.

They’ve also undergone a managerial shift, with Simone Inzaghi stepping in to replace Jorge Jesus. While Inzaghi lacks Club World Cup experience, the club itself is no stranger to the competition, boasting more appearances under the old format than any other Saudi side.

In terms of historical meetings, Real Madrid hold the clear edge. Their only previous clash with Al-Hilal came in the 2022 final, where they triumphed 5-3. Madrid also enjoy a perfect record against Saudi clubs, having won both encounters to date.

For Al-Hilal, their sole experience against Spanish opposition remains that loss to Madrid, and they also fell short against Chelsea in the 2021 edition, suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat.

Managerial dynamics could also play a key role. Simone Inzaghi has faced both Madrid and Alonso in past encounters, losing all three without scoring a single goal.