Monterrey, the final team from Concacaf remaining in the competition, will feel confident heading into their match against Dortmund on Tuesday, especially after witnessing several upsets in the earlier knockout rounds. European powerhouses like Inter and Manchester City have already been eliminated, and Dortmund themselves previously drew against non-European opponents. This history suggests another surprise result is certainly within the realm of possibility.
A key figure for Monterrey is Sergio Ramos, anchoring their defense which has proven to be one of the most solid in the tournament. German Beterame is also finding form at a crucial time for the Mexican squad. While Borussia Dortmund will likely feel they have the advantage and expect to advance, the unpredictable nature of the Club World Cup means any team can be vulnerable if they aren`t performing at their absolute best. The match will be played indoors at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, eliminating any heat concerns that affected previous games, but this does not lessen the potential for an upset.
Match Details
- Matchup:
- Borussia Dortmund vs. Monterrey
- Date:
- Tuesday, July 1
- Time:
- 9 p.m. ET
- Location:
- Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
- Live Stream:
- Available on DAZN (for free)
- Odds:
- Borussia Dortmund -120; Draw +250; Monterrey +340
Last Meeting
This upcoming game will mark the first official encounter between these two clubs.
Player to Watch
Sergio Ramos, Monterrey: Brought into the team specifically to bolster their presence for the Club World Cup, Ramos has more than proven his worth. He`s been instrumental in solidifying their defense and has even contributed a goal. His performance will be central to Monterrey`s efforts against Dortmund in the Round of 16. This tournament run has already been impressive for the Liga MX side, and they will be eager to continue, especially with the potential of facing Ramos`s former club, Real Madrid, in a future round if they win.
Storyline to Watch
Will the Upsets Persist? Only three European teams have reached the quarterfinals of the Club World Cup, ensuring that at least one non-European team will make it to the semifinals. Monterrey has a real chance to join them and guarantee that four different continents are represented in the final four. A major goal of the expanded Club World Cup format was to give teams from outside Europe the opportunity to compete against top global clubs, and the tournament thus far has certainly delivered on this promise.
Prediction
Prediction: This match could potentially extend into extra time. The prediction is a 1-1 draw in regular time, with Monterrey ultimately winning on penalties. Sergio Ramos is expected to play a vital role defensively, while a late equalizer from German Beterame could be the catalyst for taking the game to a shootout.
Dominic Ashworth