Xabi Alonso will be aiming to make a strong statement on Tuesday night as he leads his side into the semi-finals of the Club World Cup against European champions Paris Saint-Germain at the MetLife Stadium in the United States.
Madrid have been impressive in the tournament so far, despite a shaky start in their opening match. The Spanish giants topped their group after winning two of their three games, with their only setback being a draw against Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
After advancing from the group stage, Madrid went on to eliminate Juventus and Borussia Dortmund in the Round of 16 and quarter-finals, respectively. Goals from Mbappé and García were crucial in securing their spot in the semi-finals.
However, after narrowly edging past Dortmund, Madrid will need to tighten the gaps in their defense as they prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain, a team renowned for its attacking firepower.
Paris Saint-Germain, reigning Champions League winners, have carried their stellar domestic form into this tournament. Drawn in the same group as Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, PSG still managed to finish top of the group despite suffering a defeat to Brazilian side Botafogo.
In the round of 16, PSG faced Inter Miami and delivered one of their finest performances of the competition, dominating the match and cruising to a 4-0 victory.
Their quarter-final clash was against German powerhouse Bayern Munich, a tightly contested fixture filled with intensity both on and off the pitch. PSG kept their composure and advanced to the semi-finals with a solid 2-0 win.
Madrid and Paris have faced each other 12 times in total, and whenever these two European giants meet, it’s always an open contest with no clear favorite. Out of those encounters, Madrid have claimed 5 wins, Paris have secured 3 victories, and 4 matches have ended in a draw.
Madrid have had an inconsistent season, but their new coach has reignited hope of securing a crucial victory. On the other hand, Paris Saint-Germain is determined to add another trophy to their cabinet this year. It promises to be a tough and tightly contested match.
By Otoo Jesse
