The second semi-final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises fireworks as Paris Saint-Germain take on Real Madrid in what many are calling a “final before the final.” With both sides representing the pinnacle of European football, only one will earn a place in the tournament’s grand finale.
One of the biggest storylines is Kylian Mbappé’s first clash against his former club PSG since his high-profile move to Real Madrid last summer. The transfer, which occurred on a free deal, caused friction between the two clubs, not just because of the financial blow to PSG but also due to unresolved bonus disputes that ended in legal action.
Mbappé’s return adds drama to an already high-stakes matchup, and every touch from him is sure to command attention.
Real Madrid has historically dominated recent meetings. Of their last nine encounters, PSG have won just twice, drawn twice, and lost five, showing that the Spanish giants have often had the edge when it mattered most.
PSG: Powerful Attack, But Defensive Worries
PSG comes into the match in dominant form, having scored 12 goals in their five Club World Cup matches, an average of more than two goals per game. Ousmane Dembélé has made a strong return, scoring off the bench against Bayern Munich and adding flair to PSG’s already potent attack.
However, the French side faces significant issues in defense. Key center-backs Pacho and Lucas Hernández are both suspended after receiving red cards in the previous round. Pacho, who had started every game in the tournament, will be a big miss.
Young defender Beraldo is expected to partner Marquinhos in central defense. This pairing lacks experience in high-pressure matches and could become a focal point for Real Madrid’s attack.
Despite their defensive concerns, PSG remain a strong unit, motivated to win on home soil and push for a historic treble. Their attacking depth and overall momentum make them a serious threat.
Real Madrid: Attacking Depth vs Defensive Gaps
Real Madrid, five-time Club World Cup champions, continue to show their championship DNA. In the quarter-finals, they edged past Borussia Dortmund in a thrilling 3–2 victory.
In that match, Mbappé scored his first goal of the tournament, signalling his return to form. Head coach Xabi Alonso, in his first season at the helm, has maintained consistent results despite changes to the squad.
The surprise of the tournament for Madrid has been 21-year-old Gonzalo García, who has netted four goals so far. His performances have raised the question of whether Alonso will bench him in favor of Mbappé in this emotionally charged semi-final.
Alonso previously noted that Mbappé isn’t yet at 100% fitness. Despite this, Mbappé’s 44 goals in his debut season continue to make a significant impact.
Defensively, Madrid faces its challenges. Defender Heuysen is suspended, while Carvajal, Militão, and several others are out due to injuries. The squad may be forced to adopt a back-three setup, with little room for error against PSG’s high-speed frontline.
Clash of Legacy and Ambition
Beyond just reaching the final, this match represents a battle between footballing philosophies, club legacies, and personal vendettas. Madrid’s patchwork defense will be challenged by PSG’s explosive attack. At the same time, Madrid’s tactical discipline and experience could exploit PSG’s backline vulnerabilities.
Both sides are capable of delivering a goal-filled spectacle, and the outcome remains unpredictable. Will PSG’s offensive momentum propel them to another significant victory, or will Madrid’s resilience and tournament experience ensure another victory?
The clash will provide answers to all the questions.
