Trent Alexander-Arnold (27, Real Madrid) shared his feelings after his debut match.

Real Madrid drew 1-1 with Al Hilal in the first match of Group H of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, U.S., on the 19th (Korean time).

In the early stages of the first half, Al Hilal surprisingly took control. Despite successive shots from Sergej Milinković-Savić and Leonardo, as well as a goal from Rodi, it was ruled offside.

In the 34th minute of the first half, Real took the lead when Gonzalo García finished off a cross from Rodrygo during a counterattack. However, in the 39th minute, Al Hilal equalized when Rubén Neves successfully converted a penalty kick awarded for a foul by Marco Asensio.

In the second half, Real changed the mood by bringing in Arda Güler, and continued to create opportunities, including a shot that hit the crossbar, but they lacked decisiveness. Federico Valverde missed a penalty kick awarded after a VAR review in the 45th minute, missing a chance to take the lead.

The match ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw. Real fielded most of their starters, but were stifled by Al Hilal's organized defense and the saves from goalkeeper Bono, missing the chance for victory.

After the match, Spain's Marca reported on the press conference led by coach Alonso. Alonso, who made his coaching debut with Real, noted, "Everything takes time. We have only trained three times so far. There is certainly the expectation of immediate results, but it takes time to become the team we want to be. It is true that there are areas we need to improve, which is to be expected. However, there was a reaction in the second half."

He said, "There are mixed positive and disappointing points. The result is disappointing. In the second half, we were definitely better. The first half was not very enjoyable. It was a time to identify what we need to improve. In the second half, the balance was good, we had better possession, and we pushed the opponent back deeper. However, we lacked one goal. I see that as a positive. I will build on that foundation."

He also talked about the 'newcomers' who made their debuts. Alonso said, "Din (Havisen) was excellent. Trent (Alexander-Arnold) has also improved, like the other players. I am satisfied with both."

According to Marca, Alexander-Arnold said, "It was an amazing day. Playing my debut at Real Madrid is a moment every player dreams of. Achieving such an accomplishment means a lot to me."

He added, "I feel a bit disappointed because we did not win the match. As a Real Madrid player, you must have the mentality to win every game. Therefore, it is disappointing not to achieve victory. However, especially in the second half, there were many positive moments, which adds to the disappointment."

Alexander-Arnold stated, "I felt the support of the fans the moment I joined Real. It's truly amazing. Our fans are global and spread all over the world, so I can feel their support every day. I can meet them anywhere—at the training ground, hotel, or on social media."

He continued, "I have been studying Spanish for a few months now. That is an important task for me," and added, "It's important to show my willingness to embrace a new culture and adapt as quickly as possible."

He also remarked, "It’s my first transfer, so I had no expectations or anticipations. It's a huge change, and I'm enjoying every moment. Deep down, I feel I made the right decision."

Meanwhile, fans had different opinions. England's Sports Bible reported on the 19th, "The debut did not meet expectations. In the early stages of the first half against Al Hilal, he faced a scoring threat due to a defensive mistake, and it could have been a painful scene if the opponent's goal was not ruled offside."

It continued, "Particularly in the first half, Alexander-Arnold was recorded as the player with the most lost duels on the field, and shortly after the match, Real Madrid fans expressed their disappointment on social media."

One fan commented on social media, "I understood why Liverpool fans spoke about Alexander-Arnold’s defense so much within just five minutes," while another fan pointed out, "He might be better than Lucas Vázquez, but whether he is a signing worthy of Real Madrid is questionable."

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