Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign got off to a shaky start as they were held to a surprising 1-1 draw by Saudi giants Al-Hilal. The result marked a historic moment for Asian football while exposing a more profound concern within Madrid’s squad: a glaring lack of midfield organisation.
Huijsen Shines While Madrid’s Midfield Struggles
While the scoreline left many Madridistas frustrated, one bright spark emerged, young centre-back Huijsen. The 19-year-old impressed with his composure, crisp passing, and ability to break lines from deep. His ball control and vision under pressure offered a glimpse into his immense potential, prompting praise from fans and pundits alike.
Yet ironically, it was this standout performance that highlighted Real Madrid’s most pressing issue. The fact that a centre-back emerged as the most effective playmaker raised questions about the team’s midfield structure, or lack thereof.
Throughout the match, Madrid’s midfield trio of Aurélien Tchouaméni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham failed to dictate tempo or create meaningful opportunities. Their styles, while individually strong, don’t collectively offer the creative spark typically expected from a traditional playmaker.
Güler’s Opportunity? Alonso Faces a Tactical Decision
With options limited, eyes are now on youngster Arda Güler. Though primarily a winger, he possesses the kind of creativity and ball control that Madrid sorely lacks in central areas. Whether new manager Xabi Alonso chooses to experiment with Güler in a deeper role remains to be seen.
Veteran Dani Ceballos, who might otherwise offer such qualities, was once again left on the bench, with his role in Alonso’s plans increasingly uncertain. As for Bellingham, while a powerhouse in the final third, he doesn’t yet appear ready to shoulder the burden of orchestrating play from midfield.
Sources close to the club revealed that Alonso had requested a true midfield conductor like Martín Zubimendi during his first meeting with the club’s sporting directors. However, the management believed the current squad had sufficient quality to compete at the highest level. After this shaky start, that belief may soon come under scrutiny.
A Historic Night for Asian Football
Beyond Madrid’s internal struggles, the draw was a landmark result for Asian football. According to Arriyadiyah, a leading Saudi sports publication, Al-Hilal’s draw ended a 14-game losing streak for Asian clubs against European giants in the Club World Cup. The result also marked the first time an Asian team had avoided defeat against a European opponent in the tournament’s history.
Over the years, Real Madrid have comfortably dispatched several Asian challengers, including Al Ain (UAE), Al-Jazira (UAE), and Japan’s Kashima Antlers. Other Asian clubs like Guangzhou Evergrande, Urawa Red Diamonds, and Gamba Osaka have also struggled against Europe’s elite. Al-Hilal’s performance may signal a changing tide.
Arnold Makes Debut, Reflects on Real Madrid Journey
The match also saw the debut of summer signing Trent Arnold. Speaking to the press after the game, the Englishman expressed both pride and disappointment:
“Playing for Real Madrid is a dream. It’s an honour I’ll never take for granted. I’m proud to make my debut, but of course, we wanted the win.”
Arnold also shared insights into Alonso’s halftime message: “He emphasised the importance of controlling the tempo, especially in these Miami conditions. Without possession, you’re chasing the game, and with this heat, that becomes draining fast.”
On adapting to the new climate and squad, Arnold added, “It’s my first transfer, so everything’s new. The weather, the teammates, the tactics, there’s a lot to adjust to, but I’m enjoying every moment. I truly believe I’ve made the right decision.”
Real Madrid’s Club World Cup campaign is off to a rocky but revealing start. Heisen’s brilliance provides hope for the future, but without a true midfield general, cracks in the team’s foundation are beginning to show. As Alonso continues to mould this squad in his image, the question remains: will Madrid act fast enough to address their creative void before it costs them more than just group stage points?
