Background on Kylian Mbappé’s Absence
In a twist of events, Real Madrid’s star forward Kylian Mbappé will miss the crucial match against Pachuca due to a stomach illness, colloquially known in Mexico as “Moctezuma’s Revenge.” This gastrointestinal condition, often triggered by dietary changes, has sidelined the 26-year-old French player just as Real Madrid prepares for their second Group H match in the Club World Cup following an unexpected setback in their opening game.
Mbappé’s Impact and Team Adjustments
Mbappé’s absence poses a challenge for new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, who took charge just before the tournament to reorganize the team. Although Mbappé is showing gradual improvement, he will remain in Florida and won’t travel to Charlotte for the Pachuca match. This leaves Alonso with a decision to make regarding his attack strategy.
Gonzalo García to the Rescue
With Brazilian player Endrick also sidelined due to injury, 21-year-old academy player Gonzalo García is expected to lead the attack. Known as a “roots-9,” García not only scores but also contributes to building plays, which will be crucial given Mbappé’s absence.
Real Madrid’s Need for a Win
After securing only one point so far, Real Madrid needs a victory against Pachuca to accumulate four points and secure a favorable position before their final group stage match against Salzburg, who have already demonstrated their determination by defeating Pachuca 2-1 in their opening game.
Pachuca’s Uphill Battle
Despite Mbappé’s absence providing some relief, Pachuca faces a tough challenge. They lost their opening match against Salzburg and now must defeat Real Madrid to avoid an early exit from the tournament. Their final group stage match against Al Hilal, coached by Italian Simone Inzaghi, will take place on Thursday in Nashville.
Pachuca’s Confidence and Key Players
Under the guidance of former Mexican national team coach Jaime Lozano, Pachuca relies heavily on Venezuelan striker Salomón Rondón, who remains a constant presence in their attack. Rondón acknowledges the importance of the match, stating that both teams need points and that Real Madrid’s large fanbase will make the game particularly attractive.
Possible Lineups
Real Madrid: Thibaut Courtois – Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raúl Asencio, Dean Huijsen, Fran Garcia – Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouameni, Jude Bellingham – Rodrygo, Gonzalo García, Vinícius Jr. Coach: Xabi Alonso.
Pachuca: Carlos Moreno – Luis Rodríguez, Eduardo Bauermann, Federico Pereira, Bryan González – Elías Montiel, Pedro Pedraza, Agustín Palavecino – Alexei Domínguez, Salomón Rondón, Kenedy. Coach: Jaime Lozano.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Kylian Mbappé and why is his absence significant? Kylian Mbappé is a 26-year-old French footballer and Real Madrid’s star forward. His absence due to a stomach illness impacts the team’s attack strategy, as he is a crucial player.
- What are the implications of Real Madrid’s current standing in Group H? With only one point from their opening match, Real Madrid needs a win against Pachuca to secure a better position before their final group stage match against Salzburg.
- Who are the key players for Pachuca in this match? Venezuelan striker Salomón Rondón and former Chelsea midfielder Kenedy are expected to play significant roles in Pachuca’s attack.
- What are the possible lineups for both teams?
