BVB (Borussia Dortmund) eliminated in the quarter-finals, despite late rallies against Real Madrid

BVB (Borussia Dortmund) eliminated in the quarter-finals, despite late rallies against Real Madrid

Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund faced off in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinals, marking a rematch of their intense 2024 Champions League final encounter. The match, held at MetLife Stadium, was a testament to the high-quality football both teams are known for.

### Results and Key Events

In a closely contested game, Real Madrid emerged victorious with a final score of 3-2. Gonzalo García opened the scoring for Madrid just 10 minutes into the game, assisted by Arda Güler. Ten minutes later, Fran García doubled the lead, with Trent Alexander-Arnold providing the assist.

Borussia Dortmund mounted a comeback in the second half, but despite their efforts, they were unable to overtake Real Madrid's lead. In a dramatic finish, Kylian Mbappé scored a spectacular bicycle kick during stoppage time, securing the win for Real Madrid. Maximilian Beier scored a late goal for Dortmund in the 90+2 minute, but Mbappé's goal in the 90+4 minute ensured Madrid's victory.

### Performance and Statistics

Real Madrid demonstrated strong offensive execution early on, capitalizing on skillful assists and quick finishing. Trent Alexander-Arnold's form was notable, having assisted in consecutive matches. Thibaut Courtois played a key role, maintaining Madrid’s lead by denying Dortmund’s attacking efforts.

Borussia Dortmund demonstrated resilience and attacking pressure in the second half but lacked the finishing precision needed to equalize.

### Analysis

Real Madrid's combination of youth talent and experience proved decisive, with players like Gonzalo García contributing consistently. The tactical setup by Real Madrid's manager, Xabi Alonso, including starting Kylian Mbappé despite initial doubts, proved to be effective.

Dortmund showed grit and attacking intent but fell short in final execution and match management in the closing minutes. The match was a showcase of high-quality football, dramatic momentum shifts, and individual brilliance, particularly from Mbappé's late goal.

The victory propelled Real Madrid into the semifinals against Paris Saint-Germain, highlighting their continued strength on the world stage.

[1] Real Madrid advances to the semifinals of the Club World Cup. [2] Xabi Alonso, the new Real coach, had little to do from the sidelines during the match. [3] Real Madrid receives an additional $21 million for reaching the semifinals. [4] Kylian Mbappé scores a goal for Real Madrid in the 90+4 minute, making it 3-1. [5] Dortmund's Jobe Bellingham is suspended for the Club World Cup match. [6] Dortmund receives around $53 million in total FIFA prize money. [7] Real Madrid leads Borussia Dortmund 3-2 in the Club World Cup quarterfinal. [8] Anton failed to mark García, and Marcel Sabitzer didn’t prevent a delightful cross from Arda Güler. [9] The goal scorers for Real Madrid are Gonzalo García (10th minute) and Fran García (20th minute). [10] Sabitzer started in place of Felix Nmecha, as per Kovac’s strategy for clarity and compactness. [11] Real conserved energy in the 30-degree heat, allowing Dortmund to have the ball but limiting their offensive opportunities. [12] Luka Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner, made a substitution in the second half, as he will be leaving the Madrid team after the Club World Cup and 13 years. [13] Dortmund's attack was largely ineffective for much of the game. [14] Serhou Guirassy seals the victory for Real Madrid with a penalty in the 90+8 minute. [15] Maximilian Beier scores a late goal for Dortmund in the 90+2 minute.

[1] Following their win against Borussia Dortmund, Real Madrid progresses to the semifinals of the European-leagues Club World Cup.

[2] The premier-league match between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund saw Xabi Alonso, Real's new coach, maintaining a minimal involvement from the sidelines due to his team's dominant performance.

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