Club World Cup 2025: Kylian Mbappe returns as Real Madrid beat Juventus to book Quarterfinals Berth

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Real Madrid secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Juventus in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Round of 16 at Hard Rock Stadium, advancing to the quarter-finals.

A second-half header from young striker Gonzalo Garcia proved the difference in a tightly contested match, as Los Blancos maintained their unbeaten run under manager Xabi Alonso.

The first half saw both teams create chances, with Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio denying Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde with fine saves, while Randal Kolo Muani missed an early opportunity for Juventus. The deadlock was broken in the 54th minute when Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered a precise cross from a corner, allowing García to rise above the Juventus defense and head home his third goal of the tournament.

Juventus pushed for an equalizer, but Real Madrid's defense, led by Antonio Rüdiger and Dean Huijsen, held firm. Kylian Mbappé, introduced as a substitute in the 66th minute after recovering from illness, nearly doubled the lead, but Di Gregorio's heroics kept the scoreline close. Despite a late penalty appeal from Juventus, Thibaut Courtois ensured a clean sheet with a confident save in stoppage time.

Real Madrid dominated possession with 57% and recorded 21 shots compared to Juventus' 6, showcasing their attacking intent. Juventus, under Igor Tudor, showed resilience but lacked the cutting edge to break through Real's defense.

"It was a deserved victory. We controlled the game after the first half and showed maturity to close it out. Gonzalo is stepping up, and Trent's quality from wide areas is a weapon for us," Real coach Xabi Alonso said after the victory.

Real Madrid await their quarter-final opponent, while Juventus exit the tournament. Los Blancos will now face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey in the quarter finals of the Club World Cup 2025.