Real Madrid Beat Juventus as Alexander-Arnold Registers First Assist for Garcia Goal

Trent Alexander-Arnold Registers First Assist for Real Madrid in Club World Cup Victory Over Juventus

England international Trent Alexander-Arnold has notched his first assist as a Real Madrid player, helping Xabi Alonso’s side secure a hard-fought win over Juventus to book a spot in the Club World Cup quarter-finals.

The match, played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, saw the Spanish giants overcome a shaky first half to emerge 1–0 winners against the Italian Serie A record holders. Alexander-Arnold, who was making his fourth consecutive start in the tournament, delivered a pinpoint cross early in the second half that allowed Gonzalo Garcia to head home the decisive goal.

A Quiet Start, A Crucial Contribution
Despite enduring a relatively quiet first half, Alexander-Arnold made his mark nine minutes into the second period. Operating as a right wing-back in Alonso’s preferred 5-3-2 formation, he found space on the flank and whipped in a beautifully curved cross that met Garcia in stride. The forward made no mistake, powering a header past Juventus keeper Michele di Gregorio.

The assist marks an important milestone for Alexander-Arnold, who joined Real Madrid in a high-profile move and has been gradually adapting to the tactical demands of Alonso’s system. His contribution proved to be the game-winner in a tightly contested match.

Defensive Woes for Madrid in First Half
While the result ultimately favored the La Liga side, Madrid looked defensively vulnerable throughout the opening 45 minutes. Juventus nearly capitalized on several occasions, with Randal Kolo Muani missing a golden chance after being played through by the energetic Kenan Yildiz. Muani’s chipped effort sailed just over the bar, leaving Madrid fans breathing a sigh of relief.

Juventus continued to press, with Yildiz unleashing a powerful long-range strike that was deflected narrowly wide. Real Madrid’s back line, featuring a mix of youth and experience, struggled to contain the pace and physicality of the Italian attackers in the early stages.

Madrid’s Missed Opportunities Before the Break
Despite their defensive lapses, Real Madrid created some promising opportunities of their own in the first half. Jude Bellingham, always a threat with his late runs into the box, was denied by Di Gregorio at the near post. The Juventus shot-stopper was in inspired form, making a series of vital saves to keep his side in the match.

Another standout moment came when Federico Valverde unleashed a fierce effort from just outside the box, only to see it brilliantly parried away by Di Gregorio with a strong one-handed save. These stops kept the match goalless heading into halftime.

Garcia’s Header Breaks the Deadlock
After the interval, Madrid came out with renewed urgency. They tested Di Gregorio early, with both Bellingham and Dean Huijsen forcing the goalkeeper into action. However, there was little he could do about Garcia’s goal.

The decisive moment came in the 54th minute. Following a flowing move down the right, Alexander-Arnold sent a perfect delivery into the danger area. Garcia timed his run superbly and rose above the Juventus defense to head in a bullet finish that finally broke the deadlock.

Alonso’s Tactical Setup and Quarter-Final Prospects
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso once again opted for a 5-3-2 formation, a setup he has relied on throughout the Club World Cup. While it provided width and allowed Alexander-Arnold to push forward, the system also exposed gaps at the back, especially in the first half. Alonso will need to tighten up defensively if Madrid are to go all the way in the tournament.

With this victory, Madrid advances to the quarter-finals, where they will face the winner of the upcoming last-16 clash between Borussia Dortmund and Monterrey. That match promises to be another stern test for Alonso’s men, who are eyeing Club World Cup glory.

Key Takeaways
Trent Alexander-Arnold made his first major impact in a Real Madrid shirt with a brilliant assist.

Gonzalo Garcia scored the match-winning header, capitalizing on Madrid’s second-half momentum.

Juventus threatened in the first half, but were unable to convert their chances.

Michele di Gregorio stood out for the Italian side with a series of world-class saves.

Xabi Alonso’s tactics continue to deliver results, but questions remain about Madrid’s defensive stability.

As the Club World Cup progresses, all eyes will be on how Real Madrid build on this narrow win. With talents like Alexander-Arnold and Bellingham stepping up, the Spanish giants will be aiming to add yet another trophy to their illustrious cabinet.