Madrid prepares for a significant contest against PSG in the Club World Cup, deemed a formidable test.
In a highly anticipated match-up, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) will square off in the semi-finals of the Champions League on Wednesday, July 9 at 9 p.m. CET at the MetLife Stadium.
The encounter between the two European heavyweights comes after PSG's victory in the Champions League final against Inter Milan in late May, while Real Madrid replaced Zinedine Zidane with Carlo Ancelotti just prior to the tournament.
Kylian Mbappe, who is currently not at 100%, has been pushing for a first start of the tournament against his former club, PSG. Mbappe's return could be a significant boost for the French champions, who are coached by Luis Enrique.
Real Madrid cruised to a comfortable 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the last-eight tie of the Champions League at the MetLife Stadium, with goals in the first 20 minutes by Gonzalo Garcia and Fran Garcia. However, the German side managed a late flurry, with Maximilian Beier scoring for Dortmund in stoppage time, followed by an overhead kick from Mbappe and a penalty from Serhou Guirassy for the Germans.
Despite the late comeback, Niko Kovac, Dortmund's coach, was satisfied with his team's performance at the tournament, considering it a good one despite the defeat. Kovac also congratulated Real Madrid for going through and considered their victory to be well-deserved.
Real Madrid's coach, Alonso, acknowledged that his team can do better but was pleased with their overall performance. However, he expressed concern about the suspension of centre-back Dean Huijsen, who was sent off during the game against Dortmund, meaning he will miss the semi-final against PSG.
Gonzalo Garcia, who has been prolific with the Madrid second team, Castilla, scoring 25 goals in a season, has also impressed in the Club World Cup, scoring four goals in five appearances.
With both teams boasting impressive form and star-studded squads, the semi-final between Real Madrid and PSG promises to be an exciting and closely contested match. The winner will secure a place in the final and the chance to be crowned the champions of Europe.
In the upcoming clash scheduled for Wednesday, July 9, Real Madrid, having defeated Borussia Dortmund in the previous round, will challenge Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League semi-finals. This keenly anticipated encounter follows PSG's triumph over Inter Milan in the Champions League final in May, while Real Madrid, under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, displayed resilience in the tournament despite Zinedine Zidane's departure. The victorious team in this semifinal will vie for a spot in the final and the opportunity to be proclaimed the European champions, showcasing their prowess in international sports, particularly football.
