Real Madrid's promising young defender, Raúl Asencio, endured another difficult outing in the FIFA Club World Cup, receiving a straight red card just seven minutes into their group stage match against Mexican side Pachuca today, June 22, 2025.
The 22-year-old was dismissed for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. A long ball over the top caught the Real Madrid defense off guard, putting Pachuca striker Salomón Rondón through on goal. Asencio, in a desperate attempt to recover, pulled down the Venezuelan international just outside the penalty area. The referee had no hesitation in brandishing a red card, leaving the Spanish giants to play the vast majority of the crucial match with ten men.
This incident marks a continuation of a challenging tournament for Asencio. In Real Madrid's opening fixture against Al Hilal, the defender conceded a penalty, which contributed to a disappointing 1-1 draw.
The early dismissal against Pachuca put immediate pressure on Xabi Alonso's side, who are seeking to assert their dominance in the newly expanded tournament. Asencio's rash decision not only impacts the current match but will also see him suspended for Real Madrid's next game, further stretching a defense that has appeared vulnerable in the early stages of the competition.
