Match Preview for Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund
Two of Europe’s top sides go head-to-head again in the Club World Cup quarter-final clash this Saturday as Real Madrid meet Borussia Dortmund in New Jersey.
A familiar rivalry from the Champions League and earlier in the competition, the stakes are higher this time around as the winner earns a semi-final spot against either Bayern Munich or Paris Saint-Germain.
Real Madrid have looked strong since their opening draw with Al-Hilal, cruising past Pachuca and Red Bull Salzburg before seeing off Juventus in the last 16.
Under Xabi Alonso, the Spanish giants look every bit a contender for their sixth Club World Cup crown.
Dortmund, meanwhile, have enjoyed a major turnaround under Niko Kovac. After finishing the Bundesliga season in style and topping their Club World Cup group, they defeated Monterrey with an early double from in-form striker Serhou Guirassy.
With momentum behind them and only one loss in their last 10 games, the German side are a dangerous opponent, even if history leans heavily in Madrid’s favour.
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Team News for Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund
Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has switched between a back four and a back three during the tournament, making his selection approach less predictable.
Kylian Mbappe is back in the fold after illness, but youngster Gonzalo Garcia has made a strong case to stay in the XI with four goal contributions so far.
Jude Bellingham is likely to start against his former club once again, although his brother Jobe will miss out for Dortmund through suspension.
Injuries continue to limit both squads, with Madrid missing Eduardo Camavinga, David Alaba, Endrick, and Ferland Mendy. Dortmund are without Emre Can, Salih Ozcan, and Nico Schlotterbeck.
Expected Line-ups for Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund
Real Madrid: Courtois; Rudiger, Tchouameni, Huijsen; Alexander-Arnold, Bellingham, Valverde, Guler, Garcia; Mbappe, Vinícius Jr.
Borussia Dortmund: Kobel; Sule, Anton, Bensebaini; Ryerson, Nmecha, Gross, Svensson; Sabitzer, Adeyemi; Guirassy
How to Watch Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund: TV Channel, Online Stream
Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund will kick-off at 21:00 on Saturday in the UK. It is available to watch for free on DAZN or on Channel 5.
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The Stats for Real Madrid v Borussia Dortmund
- Real Madrid’s Club World Cup form: DWWW
- Madrid are unbeaten at the Club World Cup since 2014
- 16 wins in 19 appearances at the tournament
- Dortmund’s Club World Cup form: DWWWW
- BVB are unbeaten in last 10 games
- Last beat Real Madrid in 2013
Prediction
Real Madrid’s depth and experience at this level should carry them through. Dortmund are in excellent form and capable of an upset, but Los Blancos are likely to find a way, especially with Mbappe back.
Real Madrid 2-1 Borussia Dortmund
