In perhaps the most highly-anticipated matchup of the Round of 16, Real Madrid will take on PSG. FIFA Club World Cup semifinals set to produce a blockbuster matchup. The match will occur on Wednesday, July 9, at 3 PM local time (19:00 GMT) at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, United States. With much to celebrate and much to lament still on both sides, this opening semifinal promises to be an all-star sweepstakes of a classic match.
Real Madrid advances to the semifinals after a dominant tournament! They went on to defeat Al Hilal in the final, 5-3. Vinicius Jr had a huge part to play in that game, netting the all-important fifth goal to send his team through. This victory brings Real Madrid’s overall tally to six FIFA Club World Cup titles, a record. They squeaked out wins in 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
With its remarkable winning streak in the contest, PSG is one of the favorites to win the tournament. To date, they’ve netted only 12 total goals. Their attacking prowess was evident in the quarterfinals, where Ousmane Dembele scored to help secure their place in the semifinals. And with both teams able to rack up points in the blink of an eye, this one should be a shootout to remember.
Team Form and Injuries
It’s Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid who are dealing with the biggest issues heading into the semifinal. The roster will be missing key players David Alaba, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick, who are all hurt. In spite of these disappointments, Alonso is hopeful that his team will be prepared for the upcoming matchup against PSG.
“The tactical battle with Luis Enrique will be a big test for us. We will prepare for the upcoming game in a positive spirit after today’s victory,” – Xabi Alonso.
PSG, under the stewardship of Luis Enrique, have their own challenges as they will be without suspended defenders William Pacho and Lucas Hernandez. Nevertheless, Enrique is optimistic about what his squad can do and appears undeterred by the task at hand.
“It doesn’t matter who we play in the semifinals. All that matters is that we are there and that we want to get to the final,” – Luis Enrique.
Key Players to Watch
Kylian Mbappe of France is another, if not the best, player to watch in this semifinal. He will take on Real Madrid for the first time since signing with them last year. His tenure has been nothing short of extraordinary. It was his 44th goal for the side in only 58 outings this campaign!
Real Madrid’s Antonio Rudiger, in reflection after the draw, understood the fireworks that goes off when facing PSG, noting their nastiness.
“PSG are a very, very tough team to play against,” – Antonio Rudiger.
He further noted the quality of play expected from both sides, stating: “They’ve shown they’re one of the best teams in Europe, so it’ll be a hard match. We’re Real Madrid and we’re ready for the challenge.”
This showdown between the two football titans will feature some of the best individual talent in the country. Beyond just scoring technical goals, it will call attention to advanced strategy that well may decide the match.
Historical Context and Expectations
Real Madrid is considered by many to be the most successful and powerful club in the history of international club football. Their six FIFA Club World Cup titles are a testament to their history and how accustomed they are to this grand stage. The recent success of PSG has made them one of Europe’s biggest players. They prove their worth through exhilarating play and blockbuster rosters.
As each side approaches this important semifinal fixture, pressure mounts on the players, not to mention the anticipation and tension emanating from supporters and pundits. A number of stars on both sides are missing, having sustained injuries or suspensions. How well each team meets these tests will be key to each’s victory.
