Borussia Dortmund survived a spirited comeback attempt by Monterrey, securing a 2-1 victory and a place in the Club World Cup quarter-finals. The match, a round-of-16 encounter, took place at the Mercedes-Benz Arena in Atlanta on Tuesday.
Serhou Guirassy's clinical finishing in the first half put Dortmund in a commanding position. He scored in the 14th and 24th minutes, giving his team a comfortable lead going into halftime. However, Monterrey responded early in the second half, with German Berterame finding the net in the 48th minute. The Mexican side then mounted significant pressure in search of an equalizer, but Dortmund's defense held firm to preserve the win.
Dortmund will now face Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, a match scheduled for Saturday in New Jersey. However, Jobe Bellingham will be suspended for the match against Real Madrid after receiving a yellow card. This prevents a meeting on the field between him and his brother, Jude Bellingham, who plays for Real Madrid.
The first ten minutes saw challenges and long-range efforts from Monterrey's Nelson Deossa. Dortmund's Guirassy and Karim Adeyemi linked up in the 14th minute, with Guirassy scoring. Monterrey's Jesus Corona hit the post, and another shot from Deossa tested Dortmund's goalkeeper, Gregor Kobel. Julian Ryerson won possession and found Adeyemi, who assisted Guirassy for Dortmund's second goal. Guirassy could have completed a hat-trick before halftime.
"It was difficult. They're a good team with experienced players," said Guirassy. "I think we had a very good first half. Second half was a bit harder, but the mindset was tough and we won so we're all happy tonight".