2025 FIFA Club World Cup Match Preview: Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal

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The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off with a Group H showdown between Real Madrid and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Real Madrid enters the tournament as one of the favorites, while Al Hilal looks to make a statement in their third Club World Cup appearance.

Game Details

Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Time: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT

Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL

TV Broadcast: DAZN, TNT Sports, TelevisaUnivision

Real Madrid’s Outlook

The Spanish giants qualified for the tournament as one of UEFA’s representatives, having won the Champions League in 2021 and 2024. Under new head coach Xabi Alonso, Madrid is looking to reclaim their dominance after a trophyless 2024-25 season. Madrid boasts a star-studded squad, including Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior, and Jude Bellingham, who will be crucial in breaking down Al Hilal’s defense. Their possession-based style and high-scoring attack make them the clear favorites in this matchup.

Al Hilal’s Outlook

The Saudi Pro League runners-up enter the tournament after securing their spot via the AFC Champions League victory in 2021. Al Hilal finished second in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 95 goals in 34 matches, averaging nearly three per game. Led by head coach Simone Inzaghi, Al Hilal features Aleksandar Mitrović, Sergej Milinković-Savić, and Salem Al-Dawsari, who have been key contributors. Their counter-attacking style will be crucial against Madrid’s dominant possession game.

Key Matchups to Watch

Kylian Mbappé vs. Al Hilal’s Defense – Mbappé’s finishing ability will test Al Hilal’s backline.

Aleksandar Mitrović vs. Real Madrid’s Backline – Mitrović’s physicality and goal-scoring prowess could be a game-changer.

Midfield Battle: Jude Bellingham vs. Sergej Milinković-Savić – Controlling possession will be crucial for both teams.

MATCH ODDS

Real Madrid – 370            Draw + 500                         Al Hilal + 950

Over 3.5 – 105                   Under 3.5 – 120

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 17, 2025