All eyes will be on Xabi Alonso and Simone Inzaghi when Real Madrid and Al Hilal face off in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Location: Miami, United States
Stadium: Hard Rock Stadium
Date: Wednesday, June 18
Kick-off Time: 20:00 BST / 3 p.m. ET / 12 p.m. PT
Referee: Facundo Tello
Group H of this summer’s newly expanded tournament kicks off with the La Liga runners-up taking on the Saudi Pro League runners-up. Both Real Madrid and Al Hilal are looking to bounce back from their disappointing 2024–25 campaigns in the United States this summer.
Los Blancos, in particular, are one of the favorites to win the newly expanded FIFA Club World Cup. The pressure is on new boss Alonso, along with new signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, to bring silverware back to the Spanish capital.
Inzaghi is also making his debut on the touchline at Hard Rock Stadium following his exit from Inter Milan. It would be a dream start for the 49-year-old to lead his new side to victory over the Spanish giants, especially since Al Hilal have never defeated Real Madrid before.
Given Real Madrid's explosive attack (3.2 goals/game in La Liga 2024/25) and Al Hilal's defensive vulnerabilities (41 goals conceded in the Saudi Pro League, most among top teams), combined with their historical 5-3 thriller in the 2023 Club World Cup final, the total goals are likely to exceed three. With Mbappé in scorching form (12 goals in his last 8 matches) and Al Hilal's high-risk attacking style, expect a high-scoring affair.
Predicted Lineups
