Arda Guler shines as Real Madrid downs Pachuca 3-1 in Club World Cup clash

Turkish midfielder Arda Guler made a strong case for a regular spot in Real Madrid’s starting lineup Sunday, scoring in a 3-1 victory over Mexico’s Pachuca in the Club World Cup group stage.

Guler, 20, impressed with a composed right-footed finish in the 43rd minute, curling the ball into the far corner after a smooth build-up involving Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gonzalo Garcia. His goal extended Madrid’s lead to 2-0 and underscored the young midfielder’s growing influence within a star-studded squad..

Jude Bellingham opened the scoring for Madrid in the 35th minute, and Federico Valverde added a third midway through the second half. Elias Montiel pulled one back for Pachuca in the 80th minute, but the Spanish side held firm to secure the win.

Real Madrid's Turkish midfielder #15 Arda Guler celebrates after scoring his team's second goal with teammate English defender #12 Trent Alexander-Arnold during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group H football match between Spain's Real Madrid and Mexico's Pachuca at the Bank of America stadium in Charlotte on June 22, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Arda Guler replaced by Modric in 2nd half

Guler exited in the 60th minute to a standing ovation, replaced by veteran Luka Modric. Speaking to reporters after the match, Guler reaffirmed his commitment to Real Madrid but acknowledged that future playing time will be a key factor in his decisions.

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With the win, Real Madrid moved to the top of Group H with four points, boosting its chances of advancing to the knockout stage.

June 23, 2025 12:14 AM GMT+03:00