Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid is set to clash with Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup quarterfinals on Saturday. The teams have a history of competitive matches, most notably the 2024 Champions League final, where Real Madrid came out on top with a 2-0 score against the German side. Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid will miss the game against his brother Job, who recently joined Dortmund, due to a yellow card he received in the match against Monterrey. Below is essential information about the matchup, viewing options, and more details.
Viewing Information for Real Madrid vs. Borussia Dortmund
- Date: Saturday, July 5
- Time: 4 PM
- Location: Metlife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Live Stream: Available on Dazn (free)
- Betting Odds: Real Madrid -190; Draw +330; Borussia Dortmund +430
Anticipated Lineup
Real Madrid XI: Thibaut Courtois; Antonio Rüdiger, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Dean Fujines; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham, Fran García; Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé
BVB XI: Gregor Kobel; Niklas Süle, Waldemar Anton, Ramy Bensebaini, Julian Ryerson; Felix Nmecha, Pascal Groß, Daniel Svensson, Marcel Sabitzer; Karim Adeyemi, Sébastien Haller
Key Players to Watch
Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid: The French forward is making a comeback at the FIFA Club World Cup after recovering from an illness and will be key for his team’s ambitions to secure the trophy before shifting focus to the new season in August.
Narrative to Follow
Is Xabi Alonso Demonstrating His Expertise?: Since taking over, Alonso has fostered a positive environment at the club, despite succeeding Carlo Ancelotti, one of football’s most esteemed coaches. It remains to be seen whether he can instill the victory mentality that was a hallmark of Ancelotti’s tenure.
Prediction
Real Madrid is favored to advance to the semifinals against either Bayern Munich or PSG, aiming to enter the final stages of the Club World Cup. Prediction: Real Madrid 2, Borussia Dortmund 0.
Fan Take
This matchup is pivotal not only for the teams involved but also for fans who are invested in the trajectory of both clubs. A victory for Real Madrid would solidify their dominance in the tournament, while Borussia Dortmund’s performance could signal a shift in their competitiveness on the global stage.
