Xabi Alonso: Real Madrid ready for Dortmund showdown in FIFA Club World Cup
Real Madrid are set to lock horns with Borussia Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals on Saturday evening at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
This encounter, pitting two European heavyweights against each other, has fans buzzing with anticipation, with many dubbing it an "early final" due to the pedigree and form of both sides.
Bayern, led by Vincent Kompany, are bracing for a stern test against the reigning Champions League winners. "PSG are a strong opponent and have had big success recently," Kompany said. "It's a big challenge for us; I always like playing against the best opponents. That's why we're here."
Reflecting on their previous meeting—a narrow Bayern victory in November 2024, he added, "We won the last game against PSG, but it was a close match. We want to win again—that's all that matters."
Kompany emphasized the need for a complete team performance, noting, "It's a game of principles. Both teams don't place the greatest emphasis on possession, but rather on winning the ball. You have to earn the right to create goal-scoring chances."
He also provided an update on star player Jamal Musiala's fitness, saying, "He's been training the past few days and is taking the right steps. We'll decide what's best for the team."
PSG, under Luis Enrique, are equally determined to advance. "It's a game against one of the best teams in the world," Enrique said. "It'll be an open game with two attacking teams. We want to win and progress in the competition, that's our clear goal."
Dismissing talk of revenge after their earlier loss to Bayern, he added, "I don't have any feelings of revenge. A quarter-final is enough to be motivated."
Bayern's squad are in high spirits, with Kompany confirming, "Almost all of our players are fit and at 100%, that's very important in such a game."
Midfielder Joshua Kimmich highlighted PSG's threat, stating, "Their biggest strength is their collective. Every one of their players is dangerous." Defender Dayot Upamecano echoed the sentiment, saying, "PSG are not the favourites in this game, at this level, there are no favourites. Both teams want to progress."
Enrique praised the development of PSG's young talent Bradley Barcola, who has drawn interest from other clubs. "He's had an outstanding season," Enrique said. "I expect him to play here for many more years."
Meanwhile, Kompany singled out Bayern's Konrad Laimer for his reliability, noting, "He has spoken with his performances this season. His task won't be easy, but it won't be the first time for him."
Recent updates from X underscore the excitement surrounding the match. Bayern's official account posted, "Quarter-final day! We're ready to give everything against PSG! #FCBayern," while PSG shared a video of their training session, captioned, "Focused and prepared for the big one! #PSG."
With both teams in top form and no clear favourite, this clash is set to deliver drama, skill, and intensity. The winners could well be on course to lift the Club World Cup trophy, making this a must-watch for football fans worldwide.