Real Madrid Advances to Club World Cup Quarter-Finals with Alexander-Arnold Assist

Trent Alexander-Arnold got his first Real Madrid assist in a thrilling 1-0 win against Juventus at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami to advance to the Club World Cup quarterfinals.

Making his fourth straight tournament start, Alexander-Arnold had a quiet first half, but his lovely cross in the second half was key.  Madrid took the lead nine minutes after the restart when the England international crossed the ball into the area and Gonzalo Garcia headed it past Juventus goalkeeper Michele di Gregorio.

Alonso used a 5-3-2 defensive scheme against the Italian giants.  Madrid's defense looked weak in the first half, so they were lucky not to go behind.  Randal Kolo Muani, sprinting free on goal following a superb cross from Kenan Yildiz, fired over the bar for Juventus' finest chance of the first half.  Yildiz's thunderous long-range shot was deflected wide moments later, illustrating Madrid's rocky start.

In the first half, Madrid had few offensive chances.  Di Gregorio well saved Jude Bellingham's tight-angle shot.  The 27-year-old goalkeeper made an excellent one-handed stop on Federico Valverde.

Despite feeling nervous at first, Madrid settled in during the second half.  Di Gregorio saved Bellingham and Dean Huijsen, but Garcia's soaring header found the net.  The 21-year-old striker's goal was a fair reward for another mature display. He now has three goals in the tournament, establishing his reputation.

After recovering from gastroenteritis, Kylian Mbappe made his tournament debut 14 minutes later, replacing Garcia.  Madrid gained offensive alternatives with Mbappe, and Garcia's victory boosted their confidence.

Madrid's Route to the Quarterfinals

Xabi Alonso's Madrid now heads to the quarterfinals with a well-deserved win under their belts. They will face the winners of the last-16 tie between Borussia Dortmund and Monterrey, set to take place this weekend.

Alexander-Arnold's First Assist for Madrid

Alexander-Arnold's assist for Garcia's goal was his first in Madrid colors, and supporters hope it's the beginning of many.  Anfield's full-back was famed for his goal-scoring abilities, with 92 assists in 354 games in all competitions, more than any other Premier League defender.

His second-half pass for Garcia's header proved why Madrid bought him.  Garcia's header showed Alexander-Arnold's perfect pass and the striker's aerial skill.  Garcia's goal helped Madrid prolong their tournament undefeated streak, a moment to treasure.

Player Performances: Who Stood Out?

Gonzalo Garcia's goal was a highlight of the contest, and his constant play has earned parallels to Raul Gonzalez of Real Madrid.  Garcia has scored or assisted in every Club World Cup encounter, solidifying his place as one of Alonso's new-look Madrid's budding stars.

Juventus goalie Di Gregorio made 10 saves to keep his club in the game.  He made good decisions and had significant reactions, but Garcia's header was too forceful.

However, Kolo Muani will certainly regret his early mistake.  Yildiz's bright ball sent Muani free on goal, but he shot over the bar, frustrating Juventus supporters.

Key Stats and Records

• Michele di Gregorio made 10 saves in the match, taking his total to 27 saves in the Club World Cup this year.
• Real Madrid has now won 14 of their last 15 matches in the tournament, with their only draw coming in their opening game against Al-Hilal.
• Madrid has scored in each of their previous 14 matches in all competitions.

What's Next for These Teams?

Real Madrid faces Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinals.  The match is at 21:00 BST on Saturday, July 5.

After being eliminated, Juventus will travel to Italy for a summer training camp before starting their Serie A season on August 23.

In conclusion, Alexander-Arnold's assist and Garcia's goal helped Real Madrid reach the quarterfinals, where they will try to maintain their strong run.

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