The stage is set for a high-profile clash at the FIFA Club World Cup as European giants Real Madrid face off against Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al-Hilal. Both teams will be looking to assert their dominance on the global stage, with star-studded lineups expected to take the field at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
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Real Madrid: European Royalty Reinforced
Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid side enters the match with a fresh twist in the lineup. Two surprise inclusions — Trent Alexander-Arnold and young defender Dean Huijsen — are both expected to start, indicating a tactical adjustment from the veteran manager.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3, right to left):
Thibaut Courtois (GK) — Trent Alexander-Arnold, Asencio, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia
— Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Jude Bellingham
— Arda Güler, Kylian Mbappe, Vinícius Jr.
With creative playmakers and elite finishing options, Madrid are expected to control possession and apply constant attacking pressure.
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Al-Hilal: Saudi Champions Ready to Battle
Managed by Jorge Jesus, Al-Hilal will take the field with a dynamic 3-4-2-1 formation, built around midfield control and pace on the flanks. João Cancelo is in doubt due to a hamstring issue, but the rest of the squad appears ready to challenge the European champions.
Predicted Lineup (3-4-2-1, right to left):
Yassine Bono (GK) — Khalifah Al-Dawsari, Kalidou Koulibaly, Ali Al-Bulayhi
— João Cancelo*, Rúben Neves, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Renan Lodi
— Malcom, Marcos Leonardo
— Aleksandar Mitrović
(*Cancelo is a game-time decision.)
Al-Hilal will look to absorb pressure and strike quickly on the counterattack, with Mitrović offering a strong aerial threat in the box.
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Match Notes
• Key Matchup: Mbappe vs Koulibaly — Speed and power collide on the wing.
• Injury Watch: João Cancelo (Al-Hilal) – hamstring (doubt).
• New Faces: Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen make their Club World Cup debuts for Madrid.
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Kickoff Time and How to Watch
Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025
Time: 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida
TV Channels (USA): TNT USA, truTV, TUDN, UniMas
Streaming (Worldwide):
• DAZN (free global stream of all Club World Cup matches)
• USA-specific streaming: TUDN.com, Univision NOW, Watch TNT, TUDN App
DAZN holds the global streaming rights for the entire 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Viewers in the U.S. also have the option to watch on traditional TV networks or stream via their preferred app or service.
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Prediction
Real Madrid’s squad depth and attacking firepower give them a strong advantage, but Al-Hilal’s tactical discipline and midfield strength could make this a closer contest than expected. Expect fireworks as two continental champions go head-to-head on the world stage in Miami.
