'We all want to push him' - Xabi Alonso admits Real Madrid need Vinicius Junior to be more 'decisive' after underwhelming Club World Cup display vs Al-Hilal

Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 surprise draw by Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in their first game at the Club World Cup. The match was Alonso's first match in charge of Los Blancos since succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, and it was a drab affair. Madrid squandered plenty of opportunities to win the game, not least a last-ditch penalty that was missed by Federico Valverde.

Real were without Kylian Mbappe for the game due to illness but saw big names such as Vinicius and Jude Bellingham fail to step up in his absence. The French superstar is still not ready to return for Madrid and Alonso is hoping Vinicius can now go on and produce his best form at the tournament.

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He told a press conference: "I don't think he needs to be reminded of the situation. He's fine, but we all want to push him to be decisive, as he has been on many occasions. He has that unpredictable style of play that sets him apart. When he manages to connect with his essence on the pitch, it's crucial."

Real Madrid play their second group game on Sunday against Mexican side Pachuca at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.