Real Madrid defeated CF Pachuca 3-1 in a Club World Cup Group H clash despite playing with 10 men early.
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Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler both struck late in the first half, giving Madrid a two-goal cushion before halftime.
Federico Valverde added a third in the 70th minute, sealing Madrid’s first win under manager Xabi Alonso.
This victory follows a dramatic 1-1 draw against Al-Hilal, reviving Madrid’s hopes of reaching the Club World Cup knockout stage.
Raul Asencio was shown a red card in the seventh minute for denying a goal-scoring opportunity, leaving Madrid a man down.
Despite Pachuca’s dominance in possession and shot attempts, Madrid were more clinical with their limited chances in front of goal.
Thibaut Courtois made 10 key saves, though he was beaten by Elias Montiel’s deflected strike in the 80th minute, reports Dead Spin.
Madrid can secure qualification to the last 16 with a win or draw against RB Salzburg on Thursday in Philadelphia.
Pachuca, meanwhile, were eliminated after losing both group matches despite outshooting their opponents in each contest.
Referee Ramon Abatti Abel’s early decision shaped the match, but Madrid’s quality shone through to secure a critical victory.
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