- Fixture: Paris Saint-Germain vs Real Madrid
- Date: Wednesday, July 9, 2025
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
Match Preview
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup semi-final brings together two European giants in a blockbuster clash: Paris Saint-Germain, the reigning French and European champions, and Real Madrid, the Spanish powerhouses with a record haul of Club World Cup titles. Both teams have navigated tough routes to reach this stage, setting up a contest that promises fireworks and world-class footballing drama.
PSG arrive in New Jersey on the back of a historic treble-winning season, having lifted Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and their maiden Champions League title. Their journey in this tournament has been impressive, highlighted by a 2-0 win over Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals, even after finishing the match with nine men due to red cards for Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernández. The Parisians have shown resilience and attacking flair, with Désiré Doué and Ousmane Dembélé finding the net in their latest victory. However, the suspensions of Pacho and Hernández will force manager Luis Enrique to reshuffle his defense for this crucial tie.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, come into the semi-final after a thrilling 3-2 win over Borussia Dortmund. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos are eager to bounce back from a rare trophyless campaign last season. Their path to the semi-finals has seen them dispatch tough opponents, with Gonzalo García and Fran García starring in their latest outing. Madrid’s attack remains potent, but they are missing key defenders Ferland Mendy and David Alaba due to long-term injuries, which could impact their backline.
Both teams have been in fine scoring form. PSG have netted in 20 consecutive Club World Cup matches and boast a formidable attacking lineup, while Real Madrid’s offensive firepower is matched by their ability to grind out results in big games. The absence of suspended and injured defenders on both sides could turn this into a high-scoring spectacle, with superstars like Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vinícius Jr., and Jude Bellingham all set to feature.
Injuries & Suspensions
- PSG: Willian Pacho and Lucas Hernández are suspended after red cards in the previous round. João Neves (foot injury) and Zaïre-Emery (ankle) are doubts.
- Real Madrid: Ferland Mendy (thigh) and David Alaba (knee) are out long-term. No new suspensions reported for this match.
Key Players to Watch
- PSG:
- Ousmane Dembélé: Scored in the last round and offers creativity and unpredictability.
- Gianluigi Donnarumma: Made crucial saves against Bayern and will be vital with a weakened defense.
- Real Madrid:
- Vinícius Jr.: The Brazilian winger is in electric form and can change games single-handedly.
- Jude Bellingham: The midfield dynamo adds goals and drive from the center.
- Gonzalo García: Emerging as a key goal threat in the tournament.
Prediction
Given PSG’s attacking momentum and Real Madrid’s pedigree, this match is set to be a classic. PSG’s suspensions at the back could leave them vulnerable, but their attacking trio is in scintillating form. Real Madrid, under new management, have shown both grit and flair but are missing key defenders. Expect goals at both ends, but PSG’s recent form and firepower may just give them the edge in a high-scoring affair.
Predicted Score: PSG 3-2 Real Madrid
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| PSG to Win | 6/5 | Bet Now |
| Real Madrid to Win | 2/1 | Bet Now |
| Draw (90 mins) | 5/2 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 4/7 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Kylian Mbappé to Score | 11/10 | Bet Now |
| Vinícius Jr. to Score | 7/4 | Bet Now |
| PSG to Qualify | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Real Madrid to Qualify | 6/5 | Bet Now |
Odds are indicative and subject to change. Please gamble responsibly.
Get ready for a night of world-class football, dazzling skills, and high drama as PSG and Real Madrid battle for a place in the Club World Cup final!
