What Did Alonso Say After the Draw with Al Hilal?
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Synopsis
Xabi Alonso reflects on Real Madrid's draw against Al Hilal in their first Club World Cup 2025 match. Discover his insights on the team's performance, the areas needing improvement, and what this means for the upcoming matches.
Key Takeaways
- Xabi Alonso acknowledges need for improvement in the team.
- Real Madrid scored first but allowed a penalty equalizer.
- Both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen debuted in the match.
- Coach emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes.
- The team has just begun to adapt to Alonso's strategies.
Miami, June 19 (NationPress) Following Real Madrid's initial match in the Club World Cup 2025 against Al Hilal, which ended in a draw, head coach Xabi Alonso shared his thoughts on the game. He acknowledged that his team struggled to find a balance and was deficient in multiple aspects during the first half, both offensively and defensively.
In this opening match, Al Hilal managed to equalize against Real Madrid, thanks to Yassine Bounou saving a last-minute penalty from Federico Valverde. Both teams scored in the dying moments of the first half.
Real Madrid initially took the lead with a goal from Gonzalo Garcia at the 34-minute mark, capping off a well-executed team play. However, Ruben Neves equalized from the penalty spot just before halftime.
In the final moments, Alonso's squad had the chance to win but failed to convert the penalty. “The second half was significantly improved compared to the first,” Alonso remarked. “We were lacking in several areas in the first period, both with and without the ball. We were losing possession too quickly and couldn’t find a balance.”
Alonso expressed satisfaction with the team's reaction at halftime, stating, “We managed to change the tempo of the game and find more players to create rhythm and control.” He emphasized the importance of learning from both the positive and negative aspects of their performance.
Both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen made their debuts, and Alonso congratulated them, noting that their presence would enhance the team's quality.
Regarding the first half, Alonso commented, “It's not frustration; we understand this process will take time. We have been together for just nine days with only three training sessions.” He recognized the need to achieve results but also stressed the importance of growth and understanding the team's identity.
Real Madrid currently holds second place in Group H and will face Mexican club C.F. Pachuca in their next group match on June 23.
Point of View
I observe that while Real Madrid's performance was disappointing, it is crucial to remember that Alonso is in the early stages of his tenure. The team will need time to adapt and improve, and fans should remain optimistic about their potential growth.
NationPress
19/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Xabi Alonso say about the first half performance?
Xabi Alonso stated that the team 'couldn't find a balance' and was 'lacking in several areas in the first period,' both with and without the ball.
Who scored the goals in the match?
Gonzalo Garcia scored for Real Madrid, while Ruben Neves converted a penalty to equalize for Al Hilal.
How did the second half differ from the first?
Alonso noted that the second half was considerably better, with the team finding a new rhythm and improving their control of the game.
Who made their debuts in this match?
Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen both made their debuts for Real Madrid in this match.
What is next for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup?
Real Madrid will face Mexican club C.F. Pachuca in their next group game on June 23.
