Dortmund edges Monterrey to reach Club World Cup quarterfinals
TOI World Desk | TIMESOFINDIA.COM | Jul 02, 2025, 19:23 IST
( Image credit : AP, TOIGLOBAL )
Borussia Dortmund edged out Monterrey 2-1 in a thrilling Club World Cup match, with Serhou Guirassy's early brace proving decisive. Monterrey's German Berterame pulled one back, but Dortmund's defense held strong, securing a quarterfinal berth against Real Madrid. However, Dortmund will be without Jobe Bellingham due to suspension, denying a potential brotherly showdown.
Borussia Dortmund secured a narrow 2-1 win over Monterrey in a gripping Club World Cup round-of-16 match at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, earning a spot in the tournament's quarterfinals. The Bundesliga side was led by Serhou Guirassy, who scored both of Dortmund’s goals in the 14th and 24th minutes, giving his team a strong early advantage.
Monterrey fought back in the second half. German Berterame scored in the 48th minute, converting a header off a well-worked play involving Jesus Corona and Erick Aguirre. The Mexican club continued to pressure Dortmund throughout the half, with Corona creating multiple chances and Berterame nearly scoring again—only for one of his goals to be ruled offside.
Despite Monterrey’s intensity, Dortmund’s defense held firm. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several crucial saves, and a series of late substitutions helped steady the team. Guirassy came close to completing a hat trick but was repeatedly denied by last-ditch defending.
The win sets up a high-profile quarterfinal against Real Madrid in New Jersey this Saturday. However, Dortmund will be without Jobe Bellingham, who was booked in the 28th minute and is now suspended. This means a potential on-field clash between brothers Jobe and Jude Bellingham will not take place.
Veteran defender Sergio Ramos nearly forced extra time for Monterrey, hitting the post in stoppage time with a glancing header, but Dortmund held on to complete the tournament’s final eight lineup.