Real Madrid academy striker Gonzalo Garcia scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory over Juventus, advancing to the Club World Cup semifinals at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The 21-year-old Garcia headed home a Trent Alexander-Arnold cross for his third goal of the tournament. Kylian Mbappé made his Club World Cup debut as a substitute, returning from a stomach virus that hospitalized him and caused a five-kilogram weight loss.
Garcia Continues Breakthrough Tournament
Garcia, who had never started a senior match before the Club World Cup, has emerged as Madrid\'s revelation in the United States. The Spanish youth international comes from a notable family lineage, with his grandfather being Rita Hayworth\'s cousin.
\"I knew this competition was the opportunity of my life,\" García said after the match.
Spain Under-17s coach Hernan Perez believes García has the potential to be Madrid\'s striker for the next decade. Manager Xabi Alonso praised the young forward\'s performances throughout the tournament.
Juventus Creates Early Chances
Juventus threatened early through Kenan Yildiz and Randal Kolo Muani\'s combination play. Kolo Muani nearly opened the scoring in the sixth minute but scooped his effort over goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and the crossbar.
Federico Valverde dominated midfield for Madrid, registering seven shots before his 89th-minute substitution. Goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio kept Juventus competitive with multiple saves, reaching double figures in stops.
The victory sets up a semifinal meeting with either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey. Madrid maintained their unbeaten record in the competition while García continued his remarkable breakthrough on the global stage.