A ten-man Real Madrid side showcased their resilience and quality, securing a 3-1 victory over Mexican club Pachuca in a hard-fought FIFA Club World Cup group stage match at the Bank of America Stadium earlier today. Goals from Jude Bellingham, Arda Güler, and Federico Valverde sealed the win for the Spanish giants, who played the majority of the match at a numerical disadvantage.
The complexion of the game was altered dramatically just seven minutes into the first half when Real Madrid's young defender, Raul Asencio, was shown a straight red card for a last-man challenge. Despite the early setback, it was Real Madrid who broke the deadlock in the 35th minute. Jude Bellingham continued his sensational form, coolly slotting the ball past the Pachuca goalkeeper to give his side the lead.
Just before the halftime whistle, Turkish prodigy Arda Güler doubled Real Madrid's advantage. In the 43rd minute, Güler found the back of the net with a well-taken strike, sending his team into the break with a commanding 2-0 lead.
The second half saw Pachuca trying to capitalize on their man advantage, but the disciplined and experienced Real Madrid side, under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, held firm. In the 70th minute, Federico Valverde effectively put the game to bed with a powerful strike from outside the box, extending Real Madrid's lead to 3-0.
Pachuca managed to pull a goal back in the 80th minute through a deflected shot from Elías Montiel, but it proved to be a mere consolation.
Real Madrid were without their star forward Kylian Mbappé, who was sidelined with gastroenteritis. However, the victory demonstrates the depth and strength of their squad as they continue their campaign in the newly expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup. The win puts Real Madrid in a strong position in their group as they aim to add another international trophy to their illustrious cabinet.
