Real Madrid made their way into the quarter-final of the FIFA Club World Cup after defeating Juventus 1-0 in their last 16 clash. Los Blancos’ victory means they will face a familiar foe, Borussia Dortmund, in the next round.
Garcia the Hero Again as Madrid Edged Juventus
Xabi Alonso’s men were eager to advance into the next round as they’re keen on winning the new Club World Cup format following a disappointing season. However, they were facing a stern test against Juve, who are also keen on getting far in the tournament.
Madrid were able to dominate proceedings since the first half, but Juve’s strong defence and Di Gregorio’s fine goalkeeping performance kept the score goalless. Los Blancos tried to up the tempo after the break, and their effort were not fruitless.
Alonso’s men finally got the breakthrough on 54 minutes, as their young striker, Gonzalo Garcia, struck again. The Spaniard headed home a lovely cross from new signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, to give Madrid a 1-0 lead. That was Garcia’s third goal in the tournament, from four matches that he has played.
Los Blancos managed to hold their slender lead until the final 90 minutes, giving them that ticket into the quarter-final.
Dortmund to Challenge Madrid After Monterrey Victory
Madrid and Alonso will face a very familiar opponent in the next round, as Bundesliga outfit Borussia Dortmund awaits the La Liga giant. Nico Kovac’s men advanced into the quarter-finals after taking down the Mexican side, Monterrey, 2-1.
The Bundesliga giant immediately took the attacking initiative and got ahead after 14 minutes through Serhou Guirassy. Dortmund continue their domination and eventually doubles their lead 10 minutes later with a brace from Guirassy.
Monterrey were not ready to give up easily, though, as they bounced back after the break and managed to pull one goal back from German Berterame’s effort. Unfortunately, the Mexican side couldn’t get that important equalising goal as Dortmund held on to their slender lead.
Die Borussen are set to book an intriguing date against Madrid, a team that beat them in the 23/24 Champions League final. Dortmund will hope to get their revenge this time, although it will be a difficult task.
Dortmund’s job gets more difficult as they will be without their new star, Jobe Bellingham, who is suspended for the quarter-final. Picking up a booking against Monterrey means that Jobe won’t be able to face up against his older brother, Jude.
