Real Madrid and Pachuca Set for FIFA Club World Cup Clash
Six months after their meeting in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final, Real Madrid and Pachuca will face off again in the FIFA Club World Cup. Both teams are looking to bounce back after disappointing starts in their respective campaigns.
Real Madrid managed a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in Xabi Alonso’s coaching debut, while Pachuca fell 2-1 to RB Salzburg. The Spanish giants aim to replicate their previous success against Pachuca, where they triumphed 3-0 in December.
The match will take place at Bank of America Stadium, with both teams eager to secure three points and advance to the knockout stage.
Team Performance Overview
Here’s a look at the recent performances of both teams:
Last Matches
- Real Madrid: 1-1 vs. Al Hilal (June 18, 2025)
- Pachuca: 1-2 vs. RB Salzburg (June 18, 2025)
Head-to-Head Record
In their last encounter, Real Madrid dominated Pachuca, but both teams face injury challenges this time around.
Predicted Lineups
Real Madrid (4-2-3-1)
Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Huijsen, García; Valverde, Tchouaméni; Güler, Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior; Gonzalo García.
Pachuca (4-3-3)
Moreno; Rodríguez, Eduardo, Pereira, González; Montiel, Pedraza, Palavecino; Domínguez, Rondón, Kenedy.
Injury Updates
Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé remains sidelined due to gastroenteritis, casting doubt on his participation. Alonso may rely on 21-year-old Gonzalo García as the primary striker, given the absence of key players.
Pachuca’s only missing player is Andrés Micolta, recovering from a torn ACL. Manager Jaime Lozano has most of his squad available and may choose to maintain the same lineup following their recent loss.
Match Forecast
Despite a solid record against Pachuca, Real Madrid’s injuries could level the playing field. However, with questions surrounding Pachuca’s scoring capacity, pressure will be on Salomón Rondón to deliver. The match is expected to be competitive, with a predicted outcome of Real Madrid 2, Pachuca 1.