Club World Cup Live: Real Madrid vs Al Hilal Updates, Alexander-Arnold Starts in Debut

Real Madrid Edge Al Hilal in Thrilling Club World Cup Final
By Dominic Hogan and Aadam Patel at the Hard Rock Stadium
Published: 18:29 BST, 18 June 2025 | Updated: 19:30 BST, 18 June 2025

Real Madrid celebrate their Club World Cup victory at Hard Rock Stadium.

Real Madrid claimed their fifth Club World Cup title with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Al Hilal in Miami, highlighted by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s standout debut performance. The English star, recently signed from Liverpool, injected creativity into Carlo Ancelotti’s side despite a late scare from the Saudi Arabian champions.

Team News: Alexander-Arnold Steals the Spotlight
Ancelotti surprised fans by handing Alexander-Arnold an immediate start in midfield alongside Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde. Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo led the attack, while Al Hilal’s lineup featured stars like Aleksandar Mitrović and former Liverpool forward Sadio Mané.

Alexander-Arnold (right) in action during his Real Madrid debut.

First Half Dominance
Madrid dictated play early, with Vinícius breaking the deadlock in the 22nd minute after a pinpoint cross from Alexander-Arnold. The Brazilian doubled the lead just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error to slot home.

Al Hilal Fight Back
The Saudi side roared back after the break: Mitrović headed in a cross in the 53rd minute, followed by a stunning strike from Mané to level the score. Madrid’s defense, led by Antonio Rüdiger, struggled to contain Al Hilal’s resurgence.

Debut Heroics Seal the Win
Alexander-Arnold reclaimed the spotlight in the 78th minute, bending a free-kick into the top corner to secure the win. His all-action display earned him Man of the Match honors, silencing doubts about his €80 million transfer.

Alexander-Arnold’s decisive free-kick sends Madrid fans into frenzy.

Post-Match Reactions
Ancelotti praised his team’s resilience: “Trent showed why we wanted him. This trophy proves our hunger remains.” Al Hilal’s coach acknowledged their effort but rued missed chances.

Madrid’s victory extends their record as the most successful Club World Cup team, while Al Hilal’s valiant performance signals growing competition from Asian football.

Captain Nacho lifts the trophy amid fireworks in Miami.

Final Score: Real Madrid 3-2 Al Hilal
Goals: Vinícius (22’, 43’), Alexander-Arnold (78’); Mitrović (53’), Mané (67’)

Relive the action with Mail Sport’s full match highlights and analysis.