Trent Alexander-Arnold has marked a significant milestone in his Real Madrid career, providing a crucial assist in their 1-0 win over Juventus to secure a spot in the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup. The right-back, known for his exceptional delivery during his time at Liverpool, set up the decisive goal that allowed Xabi Alonso’s team to maintain their perfect run in the tournament.
Playing at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Alexander-Arnold was making his fourth consecutive start under Alonso. Though quiet during the first half, he made his impact felt early in the second, curling a pinpoint cross into the box that striker Gonzalo Garcia met with a thumping header to break the deadlock. It was Alexander-Arnold’s first assist in a Madrid shirt and a moment that underscored his attacking pedigree from full-back.
Real Madrid entered the match with a strong lineup in a 5-3-2 setup, but they struggled to assert control in the opening period. Juventus posed several threats, including a wasted chance by Randal Kolo Muani and a deflected long-range shot from Kenan Yildiz. Madrid, for their part, created opportunities through Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde, but both were denied by an inspired Michele di Gregorio in goal.
Despite the defensive hiccups in the first half, Alonso’s side regrouped after the interval, showing more composure and tactical discipline. Alexander-Arnold’s assist came just nine minutes after the restart, shifting the momentum in Madrid’s favour. Garcia’s header, his third goal of the competition, highlighted his growing confidence and importance in the squad.
Shortly after scoring, Garcia made way for Kylian Mbappé, who was returning to action after a brief illness. Mbappé’s entrance added further spark to Madrid’s attack, although the Frenchman did not find the net in his limited time on the pitch.
With this victory, Real Madrid extended their winning streak to three games in the Club World Cup. Their next test will be in the quarter-finals against Borussia Dortmund, who recently overcame Monterrey in another closely fought tie.
Alexander-Arnold’s contribution signals a promising start to his new chapter in Spain. During his Liverpool career, he amassed 92 assists in 354 appearances, establishing himself as one of the most creative defenders in the game. His link-up with emerging talents like Garcia and Arda Guler could be central to Madrid’s ambitions under Alonso’s leadership.
As the tournament progresses, Madrid supporters will be eager to see more of Alexander-Arnold’s trademark deliveries – and the continued evolution of this exciting, new-look squad.
