Real Madrid Beats Pachuca to Lead Group H

Real Madrid defeated Pachuca 3-1 in the Club World Cup, earning Xabi Alonso his first victory as head coach and moving to the top of Group H. Madrid overcame an early red card to Raul Asencio in the seventh minute, with Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler scoring in the first half and Federico Valverde adding a third in the second. Thibaut Courtois made 10 saves to help Madrid withstand Pachuca's attacking pressure, though Elias Montiel scored a late consolation for the Mexican side. The win follows Madrid's opening 1-1 draw with Al Hilal. Madrid can secure a place in the last 16 with a win or draw against RB Salzburg in their final group match. Pachuca is eliminated from the competition after two losses.