Real Madrid vs Pachuca: Searching for First Victory at Club World Cup 2025

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Basic Information:

• Match: Real Madrid vs CF Pachuca
• Competition: FIFA Club World Cup 2025, Group H
• Date: Sunday, June 22, 2025
• Time: 8:00 PM CET
• Stadium: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA
• Current standings: Real Madrid 1 point, Pachuca 0 points

Los Blancos are trying to find form without Mbappé, while the Mexican underdogs dream of a sensation. Who will claim the crucial three points on Sunday at MetLife Stadium?

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 continues with an important clash in Group H, where Real Madrid will attempt to secure their first victory in the tournament. The Spanish giants are dealing with unexpected problems, while Mexican side Pachuca has proven they can be an unpleasant opponent even for favorites.

Real Madrid: Favorites in Unexpected Trouble

The new era under Xabi Alonso hasn't started according to plan. Real Madrid only managed a 1-1 draw with Al Hilal in their opening Club World Cup match, despite clear dominance on the field. Even a lead secured by García following Rodrygo's assist wasn't enough for victory - Asencio fouled in his own penalty area and Neves equalized from the spot.

The biggest weakness of the Madrid giants proved to be insufficient creativity in midfield. Without a classic playmaker, Los Blancos' midfield appeared lifeless. Jude Bellingham significantly disappointed in this role, raising questions about whether his current position is the right choice for the team.

Absence of Key Players

The problems are compounded by the absence of star player Kylian Mbappé. The French striker, who already missed the first match, is dealing with acute gastritis and was even hospitalized on Thursday. Although he later left the hospital, he definitely won't play in Sunday's match against Pachuca.

Alonso's charges now desperately need to secure all three points. With just one point earned, they're currently in second place in Group H, and another slip-up could seriously jeopardize their chances of advancing from what appears to be an "easy on paper" group.

Pachuca: Underdogs with Fighting Spirit

Mexican side Pachuca under Jaime Lozano may have lost 1-2 to Salzburg in their first match, but their performance didn't suggest they were the group's underdogs at all. On the contrary, in many passages they outplayed their Austrian opponents and at least matched them in terms of play.

Pachuca was actually the more active team in shooting with statistics of 17:10 on shots and 6:5 on shots on target, but they lacked efficiency in finishing. Experienced Salomón Rondón created two clear chances - once he allowed the goalkeeper to shine, the second time he only hit the crossbar.

Positive Signals from First Match

Left-back Bryan González left particularly positive impressions as the author of a beautiful goal from a direct free kick. His pace and offensive thinking could cause Real Madrid's defense significant problems.

This won't be Pachuca's first encounter with the Madrid giants - last year both teams met in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final, where Real Madrid won convincingly 3-0. The Mexicans thus have something to repay, and Real's current form gives them hope for a better result.

Tactical Analysis

Despite the unconvincing performance, Real Madrid remains the clear favorite. Without Mbappé, however, they may struggle to break down the Mexican defense if Pachuca repeats their brave performance from the first round.

The key will be whether Los Blancos can revive their offensive play. Vinícius Junior, who was among La Liga's best assist providers with eight assists, disappointed in the first match and only received a yellow card. However, he has good memories against Pachuca from last year's encounter, where he scored a goal and provided an assist.

Expected Lineup Changes

Coach Xabi Alonso realizes the importance of this match and will certainly make changes in both lineup and tactics. Strengthening the creative component of midfield is expected, along with a possible formation change to better utilize the pace qualities of the attackers.

Key Match Factors

Real Madrid will likely dominate possession, but the Mexican team could be dangerous on quick counterattacks. If Pachuca doesn't concede an early goal, they could trouble the favorites much more than generally expected.

The psychological aspect will also play an important role. Real Madrid is under pressure of expectations, and another slip-up could jeopardize their position in the group. Pachuca, conversely, can play freely knowing they have nothing to lose.

Historical Context

Last year's FIFA Intercontinental Cup final showed the quality difference between both teams, but Real Madrid's current form is not optimal. Pachuca can benefit from better match rhythm and the absence of key opposition players.

MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will provide a neutral environment, which could favor the Mexican team, who won't face the typical Madrid atmosphere.

Prediction and Expectations

Real Madrid realizes the importance of this match and will probably be able to convert their superiority into goals, but they won't have a completely easy path. Pachuca should be capable of scoring, but it probably won't be enough for points.

An open match with more goals than in the first group rounds is expected. Both teams need to score points, which should lead to attractive football.

Expected Result: Real Madrid 2-1 Pachuca

Thanks to FIFA for the data.

Photo: iSport.cz