Trent Alexander-Arnold made his Real Madrid debut along with former Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen as they drew 1-1 with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in Xabi Alonso’s first game in charge.
Los Blancos went into the game as heavy favourites, and named both Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen in the starting 11.
The Spanish giants took the lead after a sublime low cross from Rodrygo found Gonzalo Garcia in the box, who tapped in the opener.
However, their lead would not last long as ex-Wolves star Ruben Neves converted from the spot following Raul Asencio’s foul just before the break.
Former Wlves midfielder Ruben Neves equalised for Al Hilal
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Turkish youngster Arda Guler was introduced for the second half, and made an instant impact by smashing the bar from close range.
Alexander-Arnold’s quiet Los Blancos debut came to an end on the hour mark, with the defender struggling to make any real impact on the game.
His teammate and fellow debutant, Huijsen, impressed.
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Dean Huijsen impressed on his Real Madrid debut
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The Spaniard appeared assured, as ever, on the ball and helped Madrid press high up the pitch with his composure and incisive passing.
The 20-year-old remained on the pitch for the full game, which became a real end-to-end encounter during the final moments.
The drama reached its peak with just two minutes to go, as Mohammed Al Qahtani was adjudged to have fouled Fran Garcia.
Al Qahtani brought his arm out and caught Garcia in the face, but the referee initially judged the coming together as just that.
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However, after the intervention of VAR, the penalty was given - although Federico Valverde failed to convert from the spot.
Despite the two sides failing to be separated, the game proved to be a thoroughly enjoyable spectacle and showed why the Club World Cup could really shine this summer.
After the game, Alexander-Arnold described it as a “dream come true” to make his debut for Real Madrid.
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Trent Alexander-Arnold expressed his delight after the game
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"An amazing day to make my debut for Real Madrid. Almost what every player dreams of.
"Some disappointment to not have won the game. The mentality you need to have as a Real Madrid player is to expect to win every game you're playing, but a lot of positives, especially in the second half."
The defender reflected on the game: "Nobody is to blame and we take the positives, and we have things we can work on.
"I am sure we will do that going into the next game."
Al-Hilal midfielder Neves felt his side made a statement with their draw against Madrid, saying: "A positive result. We are playing against one of the biggest teams in the world.
"Everyone saw we didn't come here to draw. We came here to win."
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