Real Madrid Clashes with Al Hilal: Match Preview, Expert Predictions and Starting XI Revealed

The spotlight will be firmly fixed on Xabi Alonso and Simone Inzaghi as Real Madrid prepares to clash with Al Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup.

The expanded tournament's Group H begins with Spain's La Liga second-place finishers meeting Saudi Pro League's runners-up. Both Real Madrid and Al Hilal are seeking redemption following their underwhelming 2024–25 seasons in this summer's competition held in the United States.

The Spanish giants, specifically, stand among the top contenders for the revamped FIFA Club World Cup title. New manager Alonso faces mounting expectations, alongside fresh recruits Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, to deliver trophies to Madrid.

Inzaghi will also make his managerial debut at Hard Rock Stadium after departing Inter Milan. The 49-year-old would achieve a perfect beginning by guiding his new team to triumph against the Spanish powerhouse, particularly considering Al Hilal's winless record against Real Madrid.

Below is Sports Illustrated's comprehensive preview of this Group H encounter.

When Does the Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal Match Begin?

Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal Historical Meetings

Recent Performance (All Competitions)

Television Coverage for Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal

Real Madrid Squad Updates

Following an injury-plagued campaign, Real Madrid continue to face several player absences. Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick are anticipated to remain unavailable throughout the tournament due to injuries. Antonio Rüdiger, David Alaba, Éder Militão and Dani Carvajal also remain questionable for selection.

Concerns have also emerged regarding Mbappé's availability. The striker has allegedly developed a fever and was absent from Real Madrid's last training session in Miami. If he cannot participate, Arda Güler is likely to complete Alonso's starting eleven.

The positive development for Los Blancos involves new acquisitions Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen being ready for their maiden appearances in the famous white jersey. These fresh additions will have their initial opportunity to impress Alonso and Madrid supporters worldwide against Al Hilal.

Real Madrid Expected Formation vs. Al Hilal

Real Madrid expected formation vs. Al Hilal (4-4-2): Courtois; Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Huijsen, García; Güler, Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinícius Júnior.

Al Hilal Squad Updates

Focus will center on Inzaghi as he begins his managerial tenure with Al Hilal. The ex-Inter Milan coach is anticipated to deploy his preferred 3-5-2 system, challenging his squad to adapt new strategies against one of Europe's most formidable teams.

Aleksandar Mitrović aims to continue his scoring prowess in the FIFA Club World Cup; the Serbian striker netted 28 goals across 36 matches for the Saudi club during the previous season. His compatriot Sergej Milinković-Savić also enjoyed a successful campaign, contributing 25 goals and assists combined.

The primary concern for Al Hilal involves João Cancelo's fitness. The former Barcelona fullback was absent for his team's final six games of the 2024–25 season through injury and is working to recover in time for the Real Madrid encounter.

Al Hilal Expected Formation vs. Real Madrid

Al Hilal expected formation vs. Real Madrid (3-5-2): Bono; Tambakti, Koulibaly, Al-Bulayhi; Cancelo, Kanno, Neves, Milinković-Savić, Al-Dawsari; Malcom, Mitrović

Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal Match Forecast

It seems difficult to imagine any outcome other than a Real Madrid triumph at Hard Rock Stadium considering the club's new additions and coaching staff. However, the contest might prove closer than anticipated if Mbappé remains unavailable for the fixture.

Al Hilal possess quality, but their defensive vulnerabilities will not vanish after merely weeks under Inzaghi's guidance. Containing players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham will likely prove too challenging for the Saudi Pro League's second-place team.

Forecast: Real Madrid 2–0 Al Hilal