Real Madrid advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Juventus at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The decisive goal came from Gonzalo García in the 54th minute, securing the win for the Spanish giants.
The first half saw Juventus start strongly, with Kenan Yildiz creating an early chance for Randal Kolo Muani, who chipped the ball just over the bar. Yildiz continued to trouble the Real Madrid defense, combining well with Andrea Cambiaso and Kolo Muani. Andrea Cambiaso's dangerous cross forced Aurelien Tchouameni into a risky intervention that nearly resulted in an own goal. Real Madrid struggled to contain Juve's pace and aggression but gradually grew into the match as the half progressed. Juventus will rue those missed chances.
As the first half wore on, Real Madrid began to assert more control, particularly through Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni in midfield. Just before halftime, Michele Di Gregorio, the Juventus goalkeeper, made a superb save to deny Valverde's powerful shot.
Real Madrid emerged with increased aggression after the interval. Di Gregorio was called into action early in the second half, making consecutive saves to deny Jude Bellingham and Dean Huijsen. However, in the 54th minute, Real Madrid's pressure paid off when Gonzalo García headed home a pinpoint cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold. This was García's third goal of the tournament. The goal was made possible after a loose defensive header by Lloyd Kelly which was pounced on by Alexander-Arnold.
After taking the lead, Real Madrid continued to dominate, with Di Gregorio forced into further impressive saves. Arda Güler, Dean Huijsen and Tchouameni all tested the Juventus goalkeeper. Juventus struggled to mount a serious response, although Francisco Conceicao and substitute Nico Gonzalez each forced Thibaut Courtois into making smart saves.
The match also marked the return of Kylian Mbappé, who came on as a substitute in the 68th minute after recovering from a gastrointestinal illness. Mbappé's introduction was met with loud cheers from the Miami crowd, many of whom were wearing his jersey.
Ultimately, Real Madrid closed out the game to secure their place in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. Real Madrid will face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey in the quarter-final on Saturday at MetLife Stadium.
