Real Madrid earn respect from Al-Hilal duo after hard-fought draw – ‘Very difficult to play against them’ | OneFootball

After Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw with Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup, defender Joao Cancelo shared his thoughts with the media, describing the result as a fair reflection of the game.

Speaking in the mixed zone, Cancelo pointed out that his side had been the better team in the opening 45 minutes.

“I think it was a fair result based on what happened on the pitch,” Cancelo said. “We were far superior in the first half and had the best chances.”

However, he also acknowledged that the second half was a different story. “It was more balanced after the break,” he added.

Cancelo was full of respect for the Real Madrid players, recognising the challenge of facing top-level opponents.

“It’s very difficult to play against Vinicius, Rodrygo, Bellingham… These are some of the best players in the world, and we were up against one of the best teams in world football,” he said.

Inzaghi’s praise for Alonso

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 18: Simone Inzaghi, Head Coach of Al Hilal, reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)

Al-Hilal’s new head coach, Simone Inzaghi, also addressed the press after the final whistle. He praised his team’s effort and highlighted the growing identity of Real Madrid under their new manager, Xabi Alonso.

“You can already see what Xabi Alonso wants to bring to Real Madrid. I admire him both as a person and a coach,” Inzaghi stated. “Madrid tried to take control of the game, but we responded with character.”

The Italian coach was full of praise for his players. “It was a very good performance from my team.

“We were organised, we played as one unit, and we stood up to one of the three best teams in the world. I couldn’t have asked for anything more,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo