Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are set to clash on Wednesday in one of the season`s most highly anticipated encounters. Luis Enrique`s side will face the Spanish giants, featuring former PSG star Kylian Mbappe, who is expected to be in the starting eleven. PSG is in formidable form, having just completed a historic Treble season, including their first-ever Champions League victory. This success positions the French powerhouse favorably to become the inaugural champions of the new FIFA Club World Cup format.
In contrast, Real Madrid concluded their regular season without securing any silverware. The Club World Cup tournament offers their final chance this year to lift a trophy under the guidance of their new coach, Xabi Alonso.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, July 9
- Location: MetLife Stadium — East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Odds: PSG +130; Draw +270; Real Madrid +187
Predicted Lineups
PSG Possible XI: Gianluigi Donnarumma; Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Lucas Beraldo, Nuno Mendes; Vitinha, Joao Neves, Fabian Ruiz; Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, Kvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Real Madrid Possible XI: Thibaut Courtois; Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouameni, Dean Huijsen; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Fede Valverde, Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Fran Garcia; Vinicius Jr., Kylian Mbappe.
Key Player to Watch
Gonzalo Garcia, Real Madrid — The young Spanish striker has been a revelation in the tournament so far, netting four goals for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup. Although French star Mbappe is expected to return to the starting lineup, Xabi Alonso might consider giving the 21-year-old Spanish player a continued role, given his impressive performance.
Key Matchup Storyline
Hakimi Faces Former Club — Achraf Hakimi`s journey began in the Real Madrid youth academy before he moved on to Borussia Dortmund, Inter, and eventually PSG, where he celebrated a Champions League win this year. Despite having buy-back options, Real Madrid chose not to re-sign him over the years. Facing his former team on Wednesday will undoubtedly provide Hakimi with extra motivation to demonstrate the impact of their decision.
Prediction
PSG are widely considered the favorites to win the tournament and cap off their remarkable season with another trophy. While Real Madrid remains a formidable opponent, they are currently in a transitional phase under a new manager and may require more time to reach their full potential.
Pick: PSG 2, Real Madrid 1.
