Two European powerhouses are set to renew their riveting rivalry as Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund prepare for a mouth-watering FIFA Club World Cup quarterfinal encounter at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM local time.
The Route to the Quarterfinals
Los Blancos advanced to this stage following a solid 1-0 victory over Juventus in the Round of 16. Under new manager Xabi Alonso, who was appointed in May 2025, Real Madrid topped their group with an impressive campaign that included a draw against Al Hilal (1-1) and victories over Pachuca (3-1), and Red Bull Salzburg (3-0).
The appointment of the 43-year-old Spanish tactician marks a new era for the club, as he brings fresh ideas after his successful stint at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the team to an unbeaten Bundesliga title.
Dortmund’s Journey Continues
Borussia Dortmund secured their quarterfinal berth with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mexican outfit Monterrey in the Round of 16.
The German club finished second in their group behind Fluminense, with a campaign that included a goalless draw with Fluminense (0-0), a thrilling 4-3 win over Mamelodi Sundowns, and a 1-0 victory over Ulsan Hyundai.
Striker Serhou Guirassy, who scored both goals against Monterrey, has emerged as BVB’s key attacking threat with seven goals in seven games since joining from Stuttgart.
Head-to-Head History
The statistical record heavily favors Real Madrid in this historical rivalry. In their 15 previous encounters, Real Madrid has won 8 matches compared to Dortmund’s 3 victories, with 4 matches ending in draws. The aggregate goal tally stands at 31-21 in favor of Los Blancos.
Most recently, these teams met in the 2023/24 Champions League Final at Wembley Stadium, where Real Madrid prevailed 2-0 despite Dortmund dominating large portions of the match.
Goals from Dani Carvajal (74′) and Vinícius Júnior (83′) sealed Real’s record-extending 15th Champions League title.
Latest Betting Odds
The betting markets reflect Real Madrid’s status as clear favorites for this quarterfinal encounter.
According to the latest odds from major sportsbooks, Real Madrid is priced at approximately 1.60 with leading bookmakers like Bet105, while Dortmund’s odds stretch to 5.20 at FortuneJack. The draw option is available at odds of 4.86.
The Over/Under 2.5 Goals market shows odds of 1.57 for Over and 2.42 for Under, which means that the bookmakers expect a relatively high-scoring encounter.
Team News and Lineups
Real Madrid are boosted by the return of Kylian Mbappé to training, though he may not start after illness. Dani Carvajal and Eder Militão are available post-injury, but Ferland Mendy, Eduardo Camavinga, and Endrick remain sidelined. Vinícius Júnior is one booking away from suspension.
Borussia Dortmund will be without Jobe Bellingham (suspended), but Guirassy leads a confident attack, while Gregor Kobel continues in goal after a string of strong performances.
Key Matchups and Tactical Notes
- Jude Bellingham faces his former club for the first time since his €103 million move to Madrid, adding an emotional subplot
- Real Madrid’s tactical flexibility under Alonso, particularly with the addition of Trent Alexander-Arnold, will be tested by Dortmund’s high-pressing, counter-attacking style
- Dortmund’s pace on the break and Guirassy’s finishing could exploit any defensive uncertainty in Madrid’s evolving system
VIP-Bet Betting Tip
The recommended bet for this quarterfinal is Real Madrid to win and both teams to score, with combined odds available around 2.60 to 2.70 at Bet105, FortuneJack, and Betplay.io.
Real Madrid possess a clear edge in terms of quality and experience, but Borussia Dortmund’s attack – led by the in-form Guirassy – has been prolific throughout the tournament.
Historically, these teams have produced entertaining encounters, with both sides scoring in 11 of their 15 previous meetings.
The tactical set-up and attacking talent on display suggest an open, high-scoring match is likely.
As an alternative, betting on over 2.5 goals (odds between 1.58 and 1.60 at the same bookmakers) is also a strong option.
Both teams have demonstrated attacking intent and occasional defensive vulnerabilities, making this a solid choice for punters looking to back a goal-filled contest.
