
Can CWC Favourites Real Madrid Beat Al Hilal in Opener?
Real Madrid vs Al Hilal (18-06-2025) – Preview, Head to Head Stats, Prediction and Betting Tips.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 bursts into life as Real Madrid face Al Hilal on June 18, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. This Group H opener pits a Spanish giant under new management against a Saudi powerhouse, setting the stage for an electrifying start.
Team Form
Real Madrid step into this match with a new chapter under Xabi Alonso, aiming to erase a disappointing 2024-25 season. They’ve scored in their last 10 consecutive games, a streak that fuels optimism despite limited prep time. With stars like Thibaut Courtois, Antonio Rudiger, and Vinicius Junior ready, Alonso’s deep squad is poised to hit the ground running in this Real Madrid vs Al Hilal clash on the FIFA Club World Cup stage. Their 5-3 win over Al Hilal in 2023 adds intrigue to this reunion.
Al Hilal arrive with momentum from a second-place finish in the Saudi Pro League, now guided by former Inter boss Simone Inzaghi. Fresh from rigorous training in Washington, their squad brims with European know-how, led by Kalidou Koulibaly, Ruben Neves, and Sergej Milinkovic-Savic. Up top, Aleksandar Mitrovic and Salem Al-Dawsari, with support from Malcom and Marcos Leonardo, make them a formidable foe in this FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage battle.
Stats or Trends
Real Madrid’s relentless scoring contrasts with Al Hilal’s balanced threat, though their 2023 meeting—a thrilling 5-3—suggests goals are likely. Madrid’s depth under Alonso could exploit any rust, while Al Hilal’s defensive tweaks under Inzaghi might test the Spanish side’s resolve. With Group H wide open, this match could set the tone, especially given Madrid’s historical edge.
Injuries or Players to Watch
Madrid face injury concerns, with Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao nearing returns, but David Alaba and Ferland Mendy are racing fitness, while Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick remain doubts. Debutant Trent Alexander-Arnold’s attacking flair from the right will be crucial. For Al Hilal, Mitrovic’s finishing and Al-Dawsari’s creativity will challenge Madrid’s backline, with Koulibaly key to holding firm.
Prediction
This Group H opener looks set to favor Real Madrid, with Alonso’s tactical nous and their attacking pedigree pointing to a 3-1 victory. Al Hilal’s resilience might snag a goal, but Madrid’s quality should shine through, launching their campaign strongly. For more on this and other tomorrow’s match predictions like Manchester City vs Wydad AC or Fluminense vs Borussia Dortmund, it’s a day of global football drama.