Real Madrid failed to go beyond a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal in their debut at the 2025 Club World Cup, and one of the main figures, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, did not hide his frustration. The Belgian keeper analyzed the result with a critical eye, especially regretting the play that led to the Saudi side's equalizer.

"An avoidable penalty that changed the course of the match"

Speaking after the match, Courtois pointed out that the foul committed by Raúl Asencio, which led to the penalty converted by Rúben Neves, was a mistake that affected the team: “We gave away a silly penalty and they equalized just as we were starting to take control of the game,” he said.

The goalkeeper also criticized the slow pace shown by Los Blancos in the first 45 minutes. “We struggled to get into the match. We weren’t precise, and that allowed Al Hilal to feel comfortable and create chances. Even though we found the goal, we let it go with that play inside the box.”

In the second half, Xabi Alonso’s team showed a different face. The entrance of players like Rodrygo and the increased movement from Valverde gave the team more dynamism, but it wasn’t enough to break the deadlock.

Courtois also addressed Fede Valverde’s missed penalty in stoppage time, when Real Madrid had the chance to take all three points. “Fede hits the ball with power, but he doesn’t look at the goalkeeper. Bono guessed the direction and was already diving. It’s a shame, but he has our trust and this will help him grow,” said the Belgian.

Courtois urged the team to be more patient in attack: “It’s not always about going straight into the box. We have to move the ball, make passes, find the spaces. If we play smart, Vinícius or Rodrygo will show up.”

Promising signs despite bittersweet debut

Despite the draw, Courtois highlighted the debut performances of newcomers Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen, who showed good signs in their first match. “It was our first game together, and they did well. There’s room for improvement, but the overall impression was positive,” he said.

With this result, Real Madrid will need to win their second group-stage match to avoid complications in reaching the next round. Without Mbappé and with lingering questions, their journey to the world title has begun with unexpected obstacles.