Match Preview, Betting Odds, and Predictions of the Club World Cup match Real Madrid vs Pachuca.
Real Madrid are set to return to action for their second FIFA Club World Cup game on Sunday against the Mexican side Pachuca. They will be eyeing their first win in the tournament after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal in their tournament opener. With that result, Los Blancos are currently sitting in second place in the group table.
Meanwhile, Pachuca languish at the bottom of the table following a 2-1 defeat to Red Bull Salzburg. With qualification for the round of 16 still within reach, Madrid will hope to improve on their underwhelming display from last match. Meanwhile, Pachuca risk elimination if they suffer another loss at Lumen Field this weekend.
Despite entering the tournament as strong contenders, Real Madrid failed to impress in their opener. Only a first-half goal from Gonzalo Garcia helped them rescue a point against Al-Hilal in that match. Kylian Mbappe has been ruled out of the tournament after he sustained an injury which caused him to be hospitalized.
Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, David Alaba, and Eduardo Camavinga are also injured and that continues to limit Xabi Alonso’s options. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen both debuted last match and are expected to start again. With Madrid needing momentum ahead of their final group match against Salzburg, a win here is crucial for progression hopes.
Also Read: Real Madrid vs Pachuca – Top Goalscorer Odds, Betting Tips, Key Players to Watch, and More
Pachuca are entering Sunday’s clash knowing defeat would likely end their Club World Cup campaign early. After falling 2-1 to Salzburg in their opener, Jaime Lozano’s men must now face a wounded yet dangerous Real Madrid side. Veteran striker Salomon Rondon leads the line once again, supported by ex-Chelsea winger Kenedy.
Despite having previous Club World Cup experience, Pachuca have struggled against elite European opposition. Their most recent defeat to Madrid comint in the 2024 Intercontinental Cup final by a 3-0 margin. Lozano could field the same XI as in their opener, banking on resilience and experience to avoid early elimination.
Real Madrid’s last outing saw a 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal, where they dominated but only managed a single goal from Gonzalo Garcia. Pachuca conceded a 2-1 loss to Red Bull Salzburg in their opener. Given Madrid’s offensive firepower and Pachuca’s vulnerability, the match has strong potential to reach four or more goals. With Real likely to control and break through early, and Pachuca may be looking for a late reply, taking Over 3.5 goals at +122 looks like a solid play.
Young midfielder Arda Guler made a notable impact last season. The youngster registered nine assists and 14 goal contributions in all competitions. He was placed among top creative talents in La Liga. Although younger than some rivals, Guler regularly delivers key passes and creates scoring chances. Facing a Mexican side that often leaves spaces open, the Turkish playmaker’s vision makes him a promising anytime assist candidate at +180.
With Kylian Mbappe unavailable due to illness, Vinícius Junior will be leading the Real Madrid attack against Pachuca. The Brazilian has delivered 21 goals and 18 assists in all competitions last season. He thrives in high-pressure games, including scoring in their 3-0 win over Pachuca last December. With Pachuca’s defensive frailties exposed in their 2-1 loss to RB Salzburg, Vinicus is expected to be the focal point. Backing him to score anytime at +130 looks like a strong bet given his form and Pachuca’s struggles.
Real Madrid are expected to bounce back strongly after a frustrating 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal. With their superior quality and attacking options, including a Vinicius Junior, they should comfortably overpower a Pachuca side. Especially after they looked defensively fragile in their 2-1 loss to Salzburg.
Expect the Spaniards to dominate possession, create plenty of chances, and keep a clean sheet. A 4-0 result is our prediction considering Madrid’s firepower and Pachuca’s struggles at this level.
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