Real Madrid vs Al-Hilal
Real Madrid: Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Huijsen, Fran García; Tchouaméni, Valverde, Bellingham; Rodrygo, Vinícius Jr., and Mbappe.
Al Hilal: Bono; Cancelo, Koulibaly, Al-Tambakti, Renan Lodi; Rúben Neves, Milinković-Savić, N. Al-Dawsari; Malcom, S. Al-Dawsari, Leonardo.
The last time this both teams met was 2023 at the same competition but unfortunately it doesn't went well for Al Hilal because Real Madrid scored 5 goals and conceded 3 goals. Tonight is going to be different because the system of the competition has changed and every team involved have an opportunity to win, I expect Real Madrid to play very hard on them because they have a of good quality players that were from Europe, this competition is really an opportunity for real Madrid to clear the trophy less mark.
It’s true that Real Madrid will be chasing silverware, but I wouldn't expect full throttle from them right away. This group stage match is more about Xabi Alonso figuring out his squad in a competitive setting. On the other hand, Al-Hilal will be highly motivated — new coach Inzaghi has something to prove, and they’ll want to make a statement. Their last clash gave us an 8-goal thriller — let’s see what round two brings.