Real Madrid advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup semifinals after edging past Borussia Dortmund in a dramatic 3-2 victory at MetLife Stadium on Saturday.
The 15-time UEFA Champions League winners overcame a tense final few minutes to secure a spot in the next round, where they are set to face French champions Paris Saint-Germain.
The match kicked off with high energy from both sides, but it was Real Madrid who gained the early advantage. Gonzalo Garcia opened the scoring in the 10th minute, volleying in a precise pass from Arda Guler near the six-yard box.
It was Garcia’s fourth goal in five appearances on Madrid’s U.S. tour, underlining his rising profile. Fran Garcia followed up with a second goal, capitalizing on a well-placed cross from Trent Alexander-Arnold to finish clinically and extend the Spanish side’s lead.
Real Madrid continued pressing, with notable attempts from Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior, but Borussia Dortmund’s goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made key saves to keep the halftime score at 2-0.
After the break, the game’s intensity dipped, with neither side able to produce clear scoring chances. The real drama unfolded in stoppage time. Maximilian Beier gave Dortmund hope in the 93rd minute by striking a low shot into the far corner after a scramble in the box.
Just a minute later, Kylian Mbappé, returning from illness, appeared to put the result beyond doubt with a spectacular overhead volley, scoring his first goal of the tournament and restoring Madrid’s two-goal cushion.
However, Dortmund continued to fight. Serhou Guirassy was awarded a penalty after being fouled by Dean Huijsen, who was shown a straight red card for the challenge.
Guirassy converted the spot-kick, narrowing the score to 3-2. Despite being down to ten men, Real Madrid’s defense remained resolute. Thibaut Courtois made a decisive save in the dying moments, denying Marcel Sabitzer and preserving the win.
With this victory, Real Madrid has earned a semifinal clash against PSG next Wednesday, once again at MetLife Stadium. The match promises another intense battle as both European powerhouses aim to move one step closer to Club World Cup glory.