4 July, 2025
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Serhou Guirassy’s impressive performance propelled Borussia Dortmund to a 2-1 victory over Sergio Ramos’s Monterrey, securing their spot in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. The match, held at the air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, saw Guirassy score twice in the first half, helping Dortmund withstand a resilient Mexican side in the second half.

Guirassy’s goals came early, with the first in the 14th minute following a clever exchange with Karim Adeyemi that outmaneuvered Monterrey’s defense. His second goal, just ten minutes later, underscored his status as a top scorer, having already finished as joint-top scorer in the UEFA Champions League this season.

Ramos’s Missed Opportunity

Despite Monterrey’s spirited efforts, including a quick strike from German Berterame, they couldn’t equalize. Former Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos had a golden opportunity to level the score in stoppage time, but his header went agonizingly wide, leaving Monterrey’s hopes dashed.

The match was a testament to Dortmund’s resilience, particularly in the face of Monterrey’s aggressive play. Monterrey coach Domenec Torrent had warned his team about Dortmund’s attacking prowess, but the Germans proved too formidable, especially with Guirassy in top form.

Real Madrid’s Path to the Quarters

Meanwhile, Real Madrid secured their quarter-final spot with a narrow 1-0 victory over Juventus at Hard Rock Stadium. Gonzalo Garcia’s 54th-minute header was the decisive moment, continuing his remarkable rise in the tournament.

Real Madrid, under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, showcased their depth, with Kylian Mbappe making a return from illness as a substitute. Garcia’s emergence has been a revelation, with The Athletic’s Mario Cortegana describing the tournament as “life-changing” for the 21-year-old.

Juventus’s Challenge

Juventus started brightly, with Randal Kolo Muani and Kenan Yildiz creating early chances. However, Real Madrid gradually took control, with Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham testing Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio.

The breakthrough came when Trent Alexander-Arnold delivered a precise cross for Garcia to head home, marking his third goal in four games. Despite Juventus’s attempts to respond, Real Madrid’s defense held firm, and the introduction of Mbappe added further excitement for the 62,149-strong crowd.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming quarter-final clash between Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid promises to be a thrilling encounter. Dortmund will be without Jobe Bellingham, who is suspended after receiving a yellow card against Monterrey. This absence adds an intriguing subplot, as Jobe’s brother, Jude Bellingham, plays for Real Madrid.

Both teams have shown their strengths in the tournament, with Dortmund’s attacking flair and Real Madrid’s tactical discipline setting the stage for a captivating match. As the Club World Cup progresses, fans can expect more exciting football and potential upsets.

The tournament continues to capture global attention, with each game offering a blend of skill, strategy, and drama. As Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid prepare for their showdown, the football world watches eagerly to see who will advance to the semi-finals.