Real Madrid Tops Group After Beating Pachuca

Real Madrid, led by new coach Xabi Alonso, achieved a 3-1 win over Pachuca in the Club World Cup despite playing with 10 men after Raul Asencio’s early red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity. Jude Bellingham and Arda Güler gave Madrid a first-half lead, and Federico Valverde added a third in the 70th minute. Thibaut Courtois made 10 crucial saves as Pachuca, who dominated in shots, managed only a late consolation goal from Elias Montiel. The defeat eliminated Pachuca from the tournament after two losses. Madrid now tops Group H with four points and is close to advancing to the knockout stage, following a disappointing opening draw against Al Hilal. The team continues to play without Kylian Mbappe, who is sidelined due to illness.