Al Hilal is set to make a significant impact at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, representing Saudi Arabia on the global stage. The tournament will take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, featuring an expanded format with 32 teams. Al Hilal has been drawn into Group H alongside Real Madrid (Spain), RB Salzburg (Austria), and Pachuca (Mexico).
Al Hilal’s FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group Stage Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Time (ET) | Time (IST) | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday, June 18 | Real Madrid | 3:00 PM | 12:30 AM (June 19) | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL |
| Sunday, June 22 | RB Salzburg | 6:00 PM | 3:30 AM (June 23) | Audi Field, Washington, D.C. |
| Thursday, June 26 | Pachuca | 9:00 PM | 6:30 AM (June 27) | GEODIS Park, Nashville, TN |
Al Hilal will aim to secure a top-two finish in Group H to advance to the Round of 16, which begins on June 28.
Group H Overview
Group H presents a challenging lineup:
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Real Madrid (Spain): The most successful club in UEFA Champions League history, bringing a wealth of experience and talent.
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RB Salzburg (Austria): A dominant force in Austrian football, known for their high-pressing style and youth development.
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Pachuca (Mexico): One of the most successful clubs in CONCACAF, with a strong track record in international competitions.
Al Hilal will need to leverage their tactical discipline and attacking prowess to compete effectively in this group.
Al Hilal’s 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Squad
Al Hilal boasts a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents:
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Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou, Abdullah Al-Mayouf
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Defenders: Yasser Al-Shahrani, Kalidou Koulibaly, Ali Al-Bulaihi, Saud Abdulhamid
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Midfielders: Rúben Neves, Sergej Milinković-Savić, Mohamed Kanno, Salem Al-Dawsari
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Forwards: Aleksandar Mitrović, Malcom, Moussa Marega
The squad is managed by head coach Jorge Jesus, who brings European experience to the team.
Predicted Starting XI for Al Hilal
Based on recent performances and tactical setups, the following lineup is anticipated:
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Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou
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Defenders: Saud Abdulhamid (RB), Kalidou Koulibaly (CB), Ali Al-Bulaihi (CB), Yasser Al-Shahrani (LB)
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Midfielders: Rúben Neves (CDM), Sergej Milinković-Savić (CM), Mohamed Kanno (CM)
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Forwards: Malcom (RW), Aleksandar Mitrović (ST), Salem Al-Dawsari (LW)
This formation emphasizes a balanced approach, combining defensive solidity with creative attacking options.
Al Hilal’s participation in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 marks a significant milestone for Saudi Arabian football. With a strong squad and tactical acumen, they aim to make a lasting impression against some of the world’s elite clubs.
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