Real Madrid and Al Hilal, rival clubs not only in the World Cup: unique history

Finally, after a long wait, the Club World Cup will begin this Saturday, June 14. With the opening match between Al-Ahly and Inter Miami, expectations around the World Cup are growing significantly. While it's still too early to name a clear favorite, Real Madrid appears as a strong contender.

Having to play the group stage first, Real Madrid will face Salzburg, Pachuca, and Al Hilal.  The latter being a familiar opponent for Real Madrid due to their particular encounters. The only match they've had on the field was in the 2022/2023 Club World Cup season, which ended with a Madrid victory.

However, both clubs have also faced each other in different transfer markets over some major deals. In fact, Al Hilal has tempted Luka Modric, Rodrygo Goes, and, recently, Vinicius Júnior with multi-million euro offers.

The rivalry with Al Hilal

As the best team in the history of this sport, Real Madrid has faced several clubs throughout its existence. Having a historic rivalry with some, with others it's just starting to form a rivalry. This is the case with Al Hilal, which has fought against Real Madrid both on the field and in the transfer markets.

Although Real Madrid has come out victorious in all its encounters, Al Hilal has made it clear that it doesn't give up so easily. This is why their meeting for the Club World Cup generates a lot of anticipation, with both clubs meeting again.

With both clubs making major signings in recent weeks, their match promises to be full of excitement. Despite the few matches both teams have had, their game in the Club World Cup could be the beginning of a historic rivalry.

Real Madrid's superiority

Even though Al Hilal has been compared to Madrid due to its success, the reality is that the Arab club is far from the level of the Madridists. Still, looking ahead to the Club World Cup, it's clear that Al Hilal will try to defeat Real Madrid.