Real Madrid survived a dramatic added-time scare to edge Borussia Dortmund 3-2 and book their place in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup.
Gonzalo Garcia, the tournament’s breakout star, gave Madrid an early lead with a superb volley from Arda Güler’s cross in the 10th minute — his fourth goal in five matches. Fran Garcia doubled the advantage ten minutes later, converting Trent Alexander-Arnold’s low cross as Madrid appeared to be cruising.
However, Dortmund substitute Maximilian Beier reignited the contest late on with a goal that sparked a frenetic finale.
Meanwhile Kylian Mbappé, who started on the bench, responded almost immediately with a stunning acrobatic volley to restore Madrid’s two-goal cushion, but there was more drama to come. Dean Huijsen, impressive until that point, was sent off after conceding a penalty for pulling back Serhou Guirassy, who converted from the spot to make it 3-2.
Despite the late twist, Real Madrid held on for the win. Garcia, previously a fringe figure with just one goal in six senior appearances before the tournament, now finds himself in the Golden Boot race, tied with Ángel Di María and Marcos Leonardo, both already out of the competition.
Main Talking Point
Garcia’s emergence as a key figure under new boss Xabi Alonso has been a revelation. While Mbappé’s late impact showed his class, Garcia’s consistency and work rate have kept him in the starting XI — and possibly earned him a long-term role in Madrid’s plans.
Who Stood Out?
Gonzalo Garcia – Industrious, clinical, and relentless up front. Thibaut Courtois – Made a sensational last-gasp save to deny Marcel Sabitzer. Julian Brandt (Dortmund) – Showed flashes of creativity despite being largely outplayed.
Dean Huijsen impressed before his red card, a costly error that almost let Dortmund back into the game.
What’s Next?
Real Madrid will face Paris Saint-Germain in the semi-final at MetLife Stadium on Wednesday (20:00 BST), a blockbuster clash between European giants.
Dortmund, meanwhile, will turn their attention back to domestic duties, resuming Bundesliga play in mid-August against FC St. Pauli.