Real Madrid vs Borussia Dortmund

About this fixture

Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund clash at MetLife Stadium in a highly anticipated quarter-final rematch. Both teams have shown strong form in the tournament so far. Real Madrid impressed with a 1–0 Round of 16 win over Juventus, marking their third straight victory following a draw with Al-Hilal and a 3–0 win against Salzburg. Their defensive resolve under Xabi Alonso, particularly the tactical discipline shown against Juventus, has been a highlight.

Borussia Dortmund have embraced their underdog status, arriving unbeaten and with confidence after topping their group and edging past Monterrey in the last 16. Coach Niko Kovač has them playing with swagger and attacking fluidity—though defensive lapses remain a concern.

Tactically, Madrid are expected to deploy a 3-5-2 setup with wing-backs Alexander-Arnold and Fran García providing width, and a midfield trio featuring Bellingham, Valverde, and Tchouaméni. Mbappé is likely to start, partnering Vinícius Jr. in a dynamic attack.

Dortmund will miss Jobe Bellingham due to suspension, but will counter with their livewire front three of Guirassy, Adeyemi, and Brandt, seeking to exploit any gaps with pace and directness.

This fixture mirrors their recent Champions League meeting last year, which Real Madrid won 5–2, setting the stage for another high-scoring, high-stakes encounter.