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Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are scheduled to meet in the semi-finals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on Wednesday, July 9, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This highly anticipated clash brings together two of Europe’s most iconic football clubs in what is expected to be a tightly contested encounter.
PSG’s Dominant Campaign and Tactical Growth
Paris Saint-Germain has showcased impressive form throughout the tournament. They opened with a decisive 4-0 victory over Inter Miami in the Round of 16, followed by a clinical 2-0 win over Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals. These performances underline PSG’s attacking firepower and defensive discipline.
Under head coach Luis Enrique, PSG has demonstrated strong tactical evolution. The team has balanced individual flair with cohesive play, a factor that has contributed to their tournament success. Their progression has also emphasized the depth of their squad and the ability to manage high-pressure fixtures effectively.
Real Madrid’s Resilience and Emerging Talent
Real Madrid’s path to the semi-finals has highlighted both resilience and the emergence of new talent. After a 1-0 win against Juventus in the Round of 16, they edged Borussia Dortmund in a 3-2 thriller in the quarter-finals.
A standout performer has been 21-year-old striker Gonzalo García, who has scored four goals in five appearances, stepping into the spotlight amid the temporary absence of star forward Kylian Mbappé. Under manager Xabi Alonso, the Spanish side has tactically adapted to each opponent, blending experience with youth to sustain their competitive momentum.
A Balanced Rivalry and a Crucial Encounter
Historically, the rivalry between PSG and Real Madrid is evenly matched. Out of their last eight meetings, each club has secured three victories, with two draws recorded. This parity sets the stage for a semi-final that could hinge on fine tactical margins and individual moments of brilliance.
Both teams come into the match with strong recent form. Their respective quarter-final victories showcased strategic discipline and the ability to handle knockout-stage intensity. The semi-final promises to be a compelling display of top-tier football.
Looking Ahead: Final on July 13
The winner of this fixture will advance to the final, where they will face either Chelsea or Fluminense. That match is scheduled for Sunday, July 13, also at MetLife Stadium.
The PSG vs. Real Madrid semi-final will kick off at 3:00 PM Eastern Time on Wednesday, July 9. Fans in the U.S. and internationally can stream the match live on DAZN.
Prediction
Given the offensive quality within both squads, a high-scoring match remains a realistic scenario. PSG’s sharp form under Enrique, especially their ability to dismantle elite sides like Bayern Munich, positions them as a narrow favourite. However, Real Madrid’s pedigree in knockout competitions and their tactical flexibility under Alonso suggest they will not be easily overrun.
Both teams are likely to score in this encounter, and an outcome with over 2.5 total goals appears probable. PSG’s recent momentum may give them a slight edge, but the match is expected to remain finely balanced throughout.
Prediction: Over 2.5 goals / PSG to win
