Alonso has disappointing start as Real Madrid coach in 1-1 draw against Al Hilal at Club World Cup

Xabi Alonso got off to a disappointing start at Real Madrid as the Spanish giant was held to a 1-1 draw by Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal in the Club World Cup on Wednesday. In his first game as coach of the 15-time European champion, Alonso was denied victory when Federico Valverde's stoppage-time penalty was saved. The VAR-awarded spot kick looked like it would hand Madrid - and Alonso - a late reprieve after being pushed all the way at Hard Rock Stadium by Al Hilal under new coach Simone Inzaghi.