Real Madrid kicked off Xabi Alonso’s reign with a disappointing 1–1 draw against Al Hilal.
After bidding farewell to club legend Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid welcomed Alonso back to the Spanish capital to get a struggling Real Madrid side back to championship-winning form. His first test in charge of the biggest club in the world came at the FIFA Club World Cup against the Saudi Pro League runners-up.
Los Blancos got on the scoresheet in the 34th minute after Rodrygo linked up with Real Madrid Castilla product Gonzalo García on the counter attack. Al Hilal found an equalizer just seven minutes later, though, after converting from the spot just before halftime.
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Real Madrid had the opportunity to win the match in the second half, but Fede Valverde’s penalty was saved by Bono. The Spanish giants were forced to settle for a point in Alonso’s debut on the touchline.
Here’s three takeaways from Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup opener below.






