Overview and Background
In the opening match of Group H at the 2025 Mundial de Clubes, Pachuca faced a 2-1 defeat against Red Bull Salzburg. The Mexican team, led by Jaime Lozano, struggled against the Austrian side, which included notable players like Edmund Baidoo, Petar Ratkov, and Nené Dorgeles. Pachuca’s participation in the tournament marks their return after an eight-year absence, having previously taken part in editions from 2007 to 2017.
Game Summary
Red Bull Salzburg took the lead in the 42nd minute through Israeli forward Oscar Gloukh, who skillfully deceived Pachuca’s defense with a right-footed shot from outside the area. Despite some offensive moments from Pachuca’s captain, Salomón Rondón, the Austrian team maintained control with their swift transitions and ball possession.
Weather Interruption
A severe thunderstorm in Cincinnati forced a lengthy halt to the match, lasting over an hour and a half. When play resumed, Pachuca appeared more confident, equalizing just 180 seconds into the second half through a free-kick by Bryan González. The 23-year-old left-back curved the ball past the wall and the goalkeeper, Carlos Moreno, to tie the game at 1-1.
Salzburg Regains Lead
However, Red Bull Salzburg regained the advantage in the 76th minute when Mads Bidstrup’s individual effort found Karim Onisiwo, who headed the ball past Pachuca’s defense, leaving the Mexican team stunned.
Implications for Pachuca’s Tournament Prospects
With this loss, Pachuca faces the risk of early elimination from the group stage. They will next face Real Madrid in their second match on June 22, and a defeat would eliminate them from contention for the octavos de final. A win against Al-Hilal in their final group match on June 26 would still require other results to go their way.
Coach Jaime Lozano’s Return
Jaime Lozano, who last managed a team on July 1, 2024, during the Copa América, returned to coaching with Pachuca’s Mundial de Clubes campaign. His team qualified for the tournament by winning the Concachampions 2024 under the guidance of former coach Guillermo Almada.
Impact on Latin American Teams
Pachuca’s loss ended the unbeaten streak of Latin American teams in the tournament’s opening round. The record now stands at four draws, three wins, and one loss, including Monterrey’s 1-1 tie with Inter de Milán.
Upcoming Matches for Pachuca
- Group H, Jornada 2: vs. Real Madrid
Date: Sunday, June 22
Time: 13:00hr
Venue: Bank of America Stadium (Charlotte, US) - Group H, Jornada 3: vs. Al-Hilal
Date: Thursday, June 26
Time: 19:00hr
Venue: Geodésico Park (Nashville, US)
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Mundial de Clubes? The Mundial de Clubes is an international club football tournament organized by FIFA, featuring association football clubs from various confederations.
- Who are the teams in Group H? The teams in Group H are Pachuca (Mexico), Red Bull Salzburg (Austria), Real Madrid (Spain), and Al-Hilal (Saudi Arabia).
- What are the implications of Pachuca’s loss? Pachuca risks early elimination from the group stage. They must win against Al-Hilal and hope for favorable results in other matches to advance.
- Who is Jaime Lozano? Jaime Lozano is a Mexican former footballer and current coach, who previously led the Mexico national team and various club teams, including Pachuca.
