Before the match, Real Madrid was rated much higher than Al Hilal despite the absence of star Kylian Mbappe in attack. However, the Saudi Pro League team surprised with diverse and confident ball deployment situations.
Coach Simone Inzaghi's team was the better team in the first 45 minutes. They have 55% possession and 11 shots, with an expected goals (xG) of 1.54.
In contrast, Los Blancos lacked connection in playing style despite being the team that scored the opening goal. After a period of pressure, in the 34th minute, Rodrygo assisted Gonzalo Garcia to score from close range.
"The White Vultures" took the lead but could not maintain their advantage before entering the break. In the 41st minute, Raul Asencio made a mistake that led to a penalty. On the 11m mark, Ruben Neves of Al Hilal easily defeated goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, bringing the match back to the starting line.
In the second half, Madrid had a chance to win when VAR discovered Al Hilal's Mohammed Alqahtani fouled Fran Garcia in the penalty area. After that, the referee decided to award Los Blancos a penalty.
Federico Valverde stepped up to take responsibility for the implementation, but his low shot was blocked by goalkeeper Bounou. Al Hilal's defense remained strong until the end of the match under the pressure of the Spanish team.
Real Madrid will face Mexico Pachuca in the next match. Meanwhile, Al Hilal will meet Salzburg in a match that could decide the ticket to the knockout round of the two teams.
