The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage delivered a mix of dominant performances and surprising results on Wednesday, June 19, as teams from Groups G and H took to the field across the United States. While European giants like Juventus secured emphatic victories, Real Madrid was held to a frustrating draw, highlighting the competitive spirit of teams from other confederations.
Juventus Rolls to Commanding 5-0 Win
In Washington, D.C., Juventus made a powerful statement, dismantling UAE side Al Ain with a resounding 5-0 victory in Group G. The Italian club showcased their offensive prowess, establishing a commanding 3-0 lead by halftime and never looking back.
Francisco Conceicao was a standout performer, netting two goals in the rout. Randal Kolo Muani also contributed a brace, with Kenan Yildiz adding the fifth to complete the thrashing. Coach Igor Tudor acknowledged the strong start but insisted there was still room for improvement, particularly in managing the game under challenging conditions. This dominant display immediately positions Juventus at the top of Group G.
Real Madrid Stumbles in 1-1 Draw with Al Hilal
The most notable result of the day came in Miami, where Spanish giants Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in a dramatic Group H encounter. In new coach Xabi Alonso’s debut, Real Madrid took the lead through Gonzalo Garcia just after the half-hour mark, assisted by Rodrygo. New signings Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen also featured in defence.
However, Al Hilal, led by new coach Simone Inzaghi, responded before halftime. Ruben Neves coolly converted a penalty awarded after a foul in the box, leveling the score. The match remained tight, with both teams creating chances. The drama peaked in stoppage time when Real Madrid was awarded a penalty, presenting a golden opportunity for victory. Yet, Federico Valverde’s spot-kick was brilliantly saved by Al Hilal goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, securing a valuable point for the Saudi side.
Bounou’s performance was widely lauded, making six saves throughout the match and earning Player of the Day honors for his heroics. Coach Alonso expressed “mixed feelings” about the result, lamenting the missed opportunity for a win despite an improved second-half performance. The draw served as a prime example of non-European teams proving they can compete at the highest level against established European powerhouses.
Other Group Action: Man City Wins, Salzburg Takes Group H Lead
In other matches on Wednesday:
Manchester City 2, Wydad AC 0 (Group G): Reigning European champions Manchester City secured a solid 2-0 victory over Moroccan side Wydad AC in Philadelphia. Phil Foden opened the scoring just two minutes in, with Jérémy Doku doubling the lead from a Foden corner before halftime. Despite dominance in possession and shots, Wydad put up a gritty defensive fight. City coach Pep Guardiola noted the challenging heat and humidity but was pleased with the winning start, particularly highlighting the impact of new players. Rico Lewis was sent off late in the game for City. Manchester City sits second in Group G behind Juventus on goal difference.
RB Salzburg 2, Pachuca 1 (Group H): In Cincinnati, Austrian club RB Salzburg capitalized on Real Madrid’s draw by defeating Mexican side Pachuca 2-1. Oscar Golukh scored a spectacular goal from 25 yards out to give Salzburg the lead. Bryan Gonzalez equalized for Pachuca after a weather delay halted the match for over 90 minutes. However, Karim Onisiwo scored the winner for Salzburg in the 76th minute. This victory puts Red Bull Salzburg at the top of Group H after the first round of matches.
The day’s results set the stage for intriguing battles in Groups G and H as teams jockey for position to advance in the tournament.
