Real Madrid is chasing an eighth world crown and aiming to secure a fifth Club World Cup triumph since the tournament restructured in 2000. The final unfolded at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, pitting the most decorated club in the competition against Al Hilal, who had upset Flamengo to reach this stage.
A win would cement Real Madrid’s status as a perpetual force in world football, while the final represented a rare chance for Al Hilal in their first Club World Cup final. The clash carried the imprint of Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical planning, and Madrid faced a demanding schedule that tested player fitness and left injuries a recurring theme throughout the week.
Madrid arrived short of several key players, missing the goalkeeper, a solid defensive line with Militao, and a potent attack with Benzema. The absences opened opportunities for others to step forward after the semi final, though questions remained about finding a true number nine to partner the creative spark of Vinicius and the engine in midfield.
Real Madrid nearly slipped in the oasis
Beyond the spotlight on Vinicius Junior, the Brazilian forward returned with his signature swagger, weaving moments of brilliance with the pressure that comes with lofty expectations. Even rivals acknowledged his talent, and in the lead up to the final, discussion around his development and discipline continued to surface.
All things considered, the final underscored the Club World Cup’s reality: Madrid’s pedigree remains unmatched in Europe, yet the global stage rewards resilience and adaptability as much as history. The tournament has shifted, with clubs from Asia and other continents challenging European dominance and altering the balance of power in world football.
Four years after their last global triumph under Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid stood on the verge of another landmark, highlighting a period when European clubs faced rising competition from Asia and beyond. The format and results reflect a broader evolution in the sport where history is continually rewritten.
Ancelotti: a broader context matters more than a single player
With plans to reinforce the defense, Ancelotti weighed options to shore up the back line. The idea of resting Militao and deploying Nacho Fernández at centre back, while moving David Alaba to left back, was floated as a strategic adjustment. A standout performance from Andriy Lunin in the semi final offered confidence in goal, while the coach balanced defensive solidity with the need to unleash Madrid’s attacking talent.
Ceballos at the center of Madrid’s midfield rethink
The Italian coach faced a pressing midfield dilemma. Dani Ceballos provided a spark that challenged established roles, while Luka Modric continued to display his experience. With Aurélien Tchouaméni and Toni Kroos in the mix, rotations and lineup decisions were crucial to maintaining balance in the middle of the park.
Valverde’s evolving role as a creator and scorer signaled a potential reshuffle. If Benzema’s involvement eased, Rodrygo’s position could be tested for a final spark, with Marco Asensio waiting for an opportunity to contribute after overcoming a minor muscle issue. The likely starting XI included Courtois, Ferland Mendy, Lucas Vázquez, and Eden Hazard, each chosen for their experience at this level.
There was a broader message: this final did not simply frame Europe against South America. Al Hilal, making their fourth appearance in the tournament, arrived with a determination to bend European dominance and open a new chapter in Asian football history, bringing a squad built on international experience and domestic stars.
Finals in the Club World Cup continue to dramatize paths to glory. Madrid’s campaign began with a tough opener against Wydad Casablanca, followed by a memorable semi final victory over Flamengo that highlighted the team’s resilience. The ultimate test would determine whether a Spanish club could extend its historical edge against a Saudi side backed by a storied coaching tradition.
On the Saudi side, coach Ramón Díaz led Al Hilal with a blend of veteran leadership and rising talent. The squad blended international stars with domestic players, delivering different dimensions to the attack. The team’s journey to the final reflected a growing trend: Asian clubs increasingly competing for football’s highest prize on the world stage.
Mohamed Kanno’s availability after a suspension added a tactical edge, as Al Hilal sought to maximize chances against a Real Madrid side aiming to add another trophy to its illustrious collection. Finishing fourth in two prior Club World Cups, Al Hilal arrived intent on rewriting the record books and becoming the first Asian team to reclaim the title in this era of global club football.
Possible lineups and key data
Real Madrid: Lunin; Carvajal, Nacho, Rudiger, Alaba; Tchouaméni, Kroos, Ceballos; Fede Valverde, Vinicius, Benzema.
Al Hilal: Almayouf; Saud, Jang, Al Bulayhi, Khalifah; Cuellar, Carrillo, Mohamed Kanno; Marega, Vietto, Ighalo.
Referee: Anthony Taylor
Stadium: Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
Kick-off: 20:00 local time