The Xabi Alonso era has kicked off in the United States, although there’s been a sense of familiarity surrounding Los Blancos at the Club World Cup.
With the new manager in the job for a mere matter of weeks, a distinct overhaul from the laissez-faire approach overseen by Carlo Ancelotti hasn’t yet manifested in difficult conditions, but there have been bright sparks, no doubt.
Despite South America’s supremacy at the tournament and Madrid’s own vulnerabilities, Alonso’s men remain one of the favorites to triumph in New Jersey next month. However, the Spanish behemoths aren’t yet guaranteed a spot in the round of 16.
Here’s what they require on Matchday 3 of the group stage to book their place in the knockouts.
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