Real Madrid secured a 3-1 win over Pachuca in their second Club World Cup group-stage match on Sunday, despite playing nearly the entire game with 10 men following an early red card for defender Raul Asencio.
In searing heat at Charlotte's Bank of America Stadium, Madrid overcame adversity with goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Federico Valverde to hand Xabi Alonso his first victory as head coach.
Asencio was sent off just seven minutes into the match after pulling down Salomon Rondón outside the box, denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Referee Ramon Abatti showed a straight red without hesitation.
Despite being a man down, Madrid took control late in the first half. Bellingham opened the scoring in the 35th minute, converting a low finish after a clever build-up initiated by Gonzalo García and Fran García. Güler doubled the lead in the 43rd, slotting home from inside the area after a sharp sequence involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gonzalo García.
Valverde sealed the result in the 70th minute with a well-timed sliding volley, ensuring Madrid bounced back after a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in their tournament opener.
Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois was instrumental, making 10 saves throughout the match. He was eventually beaten by Elias Montiel’s deflected shot in the 80th minute, offering Pachuca a late consolation.
Despite outshooting Madrid 25-8 and holding an 11-3 edge in shots on target, the Mexican side failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage—just as in their previous 2-1 loss to Salzburg.
Madrid can confirm their place in the last 16 with a win or draw against RB Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia.
Speaking after the match, Bellingham—named player of the match—praised his teammates’ unity under pressure.
“We stayed together well after the red card,” he told DAZN. “Raul made a mistake—he’s young, it happens. But the team’s response was brilliant.”
Manager Xabi Alonso also highlighted Courtois’ influence: “We’re so happy to have him. He was crucial, especially with 10 men. We defended with heart and took our chances when they came.”
Earlier on Sunday, Juventus defeated Wydad Casablanca 4-1, with Kenan Yildiz scoring twice and assisting another to put the Italian side within reach of the knockout stage.
Source: Al Jazeera
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