Alexander-Arnold Assists Garcia as Real Edge Juventus 1-0 in Club World Cup

Alexander-Arnold Sets Up Garcia Winner as Real Beat Juventus 1-0

Trent Alexander-Arnold registered his first assist in a Real Madrid shirt as Xabi Alonso’s side edged past Juventus 1-0 to reach the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup.

In a tense encounter at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, the English full-back provided a trademark cross for Gonzalo Garcia to head home early in the second half, sealing Madrid’s third consecutive win under Alonso and a place in the last eight.

Madrid Survive Early Juventus Scare

Real Madrid were fortunate not to concede in a lively first half. Juventus forward Randal Kolo Muani squandered a clear-cut chance, lofting the ball over Thibaut Courtois after being released by Kenan Yildiz.

Yildiz also had a fierce long-range strike deflected narrowly wide, as Madrid’s back five struggled to contain the early Juventus threat.

At the other end, Madrid’s best first-half opportunities came through Jude Bellingham, whose shot was denied at the near post, and Federico Valverde, who was stopped by a spectacular save from Michele Di Gregorio.

Garcia Makes the Difference

The breakthrough came nine minutes after the restart, when Alexander-Arnold whipped in a stunning cross from the right. The delivery met Garcia’s perfectly timed run, and the 21-year-old Madrid native powered his header past the Juventus keeper.

Garcia, who has now scored in three consecutive matches, continues to shine under Alonso and is drawing comparisons with club legend Raul Gonzalez.

Di Gregorio Heroic, But Not Enough

Despite conceding, Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio was outstanding, making 10 saves on the night and bringing his tournament total to 27. His performance kept Juventus in contention until the final whistle.

Meanwhile, Kolo Muani will rue his missed opportunity in the first half that could have changed the dynamic of the game.

Alexander-Arnold Opens Madrid Account

Alexander-Arnold, known for his prolific assist record at Liverpool, where he registered 92 assists in 354 matches, produced his first major contribution for Madrid in style.

“It was a trademark cross,” said Alonso post-match. “He brings world-class quality and composure to our system.”

What’s Next?

• Real Madrid will face the winner of Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey in the quarter-finals on Saturday, 5 July at 21:00 BST.

• Juventus will regroup during a summer training camp in Germany ahead of their Serie A opener on 23 August.

Key Stats:

• Real Madrid are unbeaten in 14 of their last 15 Club World Cup matches.

• Di Gregorio has made 27 saves in the tournament so far.

• Garcia has now scored 3 goals in 3 appearances at this year’s Club World Cup.