Real Madrid Leads Club World Cup Group H, Eyes Round of 16 Qualification

Real Madrid, under new manager Xabi Alonso, is positioned strongly in Group H of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after a 3-1 victory over Pachuca, despite playing much of the match with ten men. The team currently leads Group H and needs at least a draw against RB Salzburg to secure qualification to the Round of 16, with a win guaranteeing top spot and added strategic advantages in the knockout stage. The group standings are tightly contested, as Al Hilal and Salzburg's draw keeps them in contention, and goal difference scenarios will determine final placements if results vary. Real Madrid's players and coach remain optimistic about ongoing tactical improvements, especially in defensive positioning and pressing, despite limited training time since Alonso's recent appointment. The club's matches have drawn massive crowds, outpacing fan attendance for other prominent teams, highlighting Real Madrid's global appeal and the high expectations for their performance in the tournament. Meanwhile, other European powerhouses Juventus and Manchester City have already advanced to the Round of 16, setting up a pivotal group stage clash to determine their seeding.