This Wednesday, an intriguing encounter awaits fans at the World Club Cup held at Hard Rock Stadium, featuring what many consider the premier football club globally, Real Madrid, as they face off against Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, a club keen on establishing its league’s dominance on the world stage.
As noted by Al Hilal’s star player, Cristiano Ronaldo, the Saudi league has recently claimed to surpass Ligue 1 in terms of competitiveness.
Al Hilal has secured six out of the last nine domestic league championships, though they narrowly missed out on retaining their title last season, finishing behind Al Ittihad.
This inability to keep hold of their crown ultimately resulted in Jorge Jesus being dismissed from his managerial role, despite his prowess as the club’s most successful coach, achieving 81 wins in his initial 96 matches in charge.
Inzaghi’s Challenging Start
Following the disappointing loss in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, former Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi stepped in as the new head coach, prompting speculation about prior knowledge of his appointment among his players before the match.
“Today, I’ve been made aware of numerous discussions speculating on my integrity, reminiscent of my time at Inter,” the Italian stated during a recent press conference.
“If this is the price for my four years at Inter, I accept it willingly. However, it pales in comparison to the affection I received from the entire Inter community – from the fans, management, players, everyone involved.”
“I know I will miss it all – even the most unjust accusations aimed at me during those years. Nevertheless, I was genuinely happy and committed to my role.”
Xabi Alonso’s First Game
Real Madrid will also feature a new face in the coach’s box with Xabi Alonso looking to secure a record sixth title for Los Blancos in the World Club Cup.
The two clubs have previously met under the same competition format, with the La Liga giants triumphing in a thrilling 5-3 victory during the 2022 final – their only encounter to date.
This match could also see plenty of goals, as Real’s last four appearances in the Club World Cup have witnessed over three goals being scored, with both teams finding the net.
On an encouraging note, Real Madrid has managed to score at least two goals in each of their last six competitive fixtures.
Manager Inzaghi’s previous encounters against Real, including another against Alonso, have ended in defeats, with his teams failing to score even once.
Al Hilal’s Attacking Threat
Players such as Aleksandar Mitrovic, who netted 19 goals in 23 SPL matches last season, and Marcos Leonardo, with 17 goals in 24 games, will be crucial to Al Hilal’s chances of success as they face a challenging contest.
Al Hilal might also breathe a sigh of relief as European Golden Boot winner Kylian Mbappe is doubtful due to illness, while Vinicius Jr. is also uncertain due to an injury.
Meanwhile, Inzaghi could be impacted by the absence of up to six regular starters from Al Hilal.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is poised to make his debut following Real Madrid’s agreement with Liverpool for an early release, joining forces with his compatriot, Jude Bellingham.
Both players are anticipated to breathe some vigour into Real’s often sluggish play during the 2024/25 campaign, and it would be a significant shock if their opponents didn’t encounter some overwhelming pressure at times.
Nevertheless, having scored 95 goals in the SPL last season—at least 15 more than any other competitor—Al Hilal will certainly present a formidable challenge to a Real defence that has shown vulnerability under duress in their previous campaign.
Huijsen Faces a Tough Task
Signing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth was clearly a strategic move to bolster Real’s underwhelming defence. He will don the famed white shirt for the first time, likely as part of a revamped lineup for this opening clash.
The young 20-year-old talent will face a demanding task against top players like Mitrovic and Leonardo, but equally vital will be stifling the creativity from the likes of Malcom, Joao Cancelo, and Ruben Neves, as Real aims to avoid a shock defeat, all due respect to Al Hilal.
A victory for either side would certainly enhance their standing in the group and make a substantial statement ahead of Group H’s subsequent matches, which will kick off shortly after with Pachuca and RB Salzburg completing the day’s schedule.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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