Madrid Advance with Composed Win Over Juventus
Real Madrid booked their spot in the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals with a professional 1-0 win over a more disciplined Juventus side, thanks to a second-half improvement and another clutch moment from rising star Gonzalo Garcia. The young striker once again proved he can be the Joselu-type number nine that this team may need off the bench in big moments.
Though this squad is still in the early stages of Xabi Alonso’s project, the signs are encouraging. Turkish playmaker Arda Güler looks right at home in the central role he’s been given within Alonso’s evolving tactical system.
Güler Thriving, Valverde Doing It All
Güler is being given the freedom to create, knowing he has the security of Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham around him in a fluid midfield three. Valverde, in particular, continues to show why he’s one of Madrid’s most complete players — constantly making the right decisions on when to drive forward, when to shoot, and how quickly to recover defensively.
At times, it genuinely looks like there are two Valverdes on the pitch.
The strength of this system lies in its flexibility. There’s no single player the entire shape revolves around — and that may turn out to be Madrid’s biggest asset heading into the new season.
Mbappé Returns, But System Remains Balanced
Even with Kylian Mbappé making a second-half appearance — to the loud delight of the crowd — there’s no sign that this Madrid side will become overly reliant on him. Alonso’s plan is clear: shared responsibilities, controlled buildup, and no panic even when chasing a game.
Tactically, Madrid played a high line with wing backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Fran García pushing well into advanced areas — often looking more like wingers than defenders. Off the ball, the formation shifted into a compact 5-4-1, demonstrating just how well-drilled this team already is under Alonso.
Fans Buying In, Juventus Show Some Progress
The biggest compliment you can give Alonso right now? Madrid fans are starting to see the vision — and they like what they see. There’s belief not only in the starting XI but also in the depth and flexibility. There’s finally a plan B, and it’s just as dangerous as plan A.
Madrid will now be considered favorites in the next round, where they’ll face the winner of Borussia Dortmund vs. Monterrey.
As for Juventus, they were more organized and compact than in previous outings, particularly in defense. Under Igor Tudor, there are signs of steady progress. Kolo Muani looked sharp up front, while Marcus Thuram put in a solid shift in midfield. But the expectation will be for this team to show more intent and ambition once the new season begins.
