Real Madrid 3, Dortmund 2: Mbappé’s Spectacular Scissor Kick Seals Dramatic Last-Minute Victory for Ten-Man Spaniards
TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD’S exceptional debut with Real Madrid carried on as Xabi Alonso’s squad navigated through electrifying moments in stoppage time.
Real’s custodian Thibaut Courtois made an incredible late save from Marcel Sabitzer, securing the victory.
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Without his heroic efforts, Dortmund could have achieved a remarkable equalizer after going down 3-1 in the fourth minute of added time, as Kylian Mbappe executed a brilliant overhead volley.
The Spanish giants looked set to replicate their previous win over the German outfit in the 2024 Champions League final.
Interim forward Gonzalo Garcia broke the deadlock, notching his fourth goal in the tournament.
Shortly after, Alexander-Arnold delivered a precise cross for fellow wing-back Fran Garcia, who added to the lead early in the match.
If Vinicius Junior had capitalized on two clear chances, Real would have been comfortably ahead by halftime.
Following a triple substitution during the intermission by Dortmund’s manager Niko Kovac, the team came back with increased vigor.
However, Courtois was largely untroubled until a shot from Maximilian Beier in the 60th minute.
Mbappe and Federico Valverde forced saves from Dortmund’s keeper Gregor Kobel, keeping the score at 2-0 as they entered six minutes of stoppage time.
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Beier’s strike seemed inconsequential at that point.
Then, Mbappe showcased an athletic finish from close range, extending the lead to 3-1.
Trent Alexander-Arnold repaid Real Madrid’s transfer fee to Liverpool with a single assist at the Club World Cup
However, moments later, former Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen was shown a red card for fouling Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy in the penalty area.
Guirassy converted the penalty, igniting Dortmund’s hopes for a comeback.
Sabitzer attempted a shot on goal, but Courtois dove to his right, ensuring that Real would face Paris Saint-Germain in a much-anticipated semi-final on Wednesday.
Alexander-Arnold dedicated his Club World Cup performance to his late Liverpool teammate, Diogo Jota.
This was Alexander-Arnold’s first match since the tragic loss of Jota and his brother Andre Silva in a car accident the previous Thursday.
Alexander-Arnold expressed, “Despite the challenges, I still have a job to do.”
‘He was there with me’
“As tough as it was, I had to keep those feelings in check. It wasn’t easy, and I won’t pretend otherwise. I played today in memory of my dear friend.
“That’s what he would have wanted; we would have laughed and joked about the assist.
“This performance was a tribute to him; I genuinely felt his presence today.”
Bravely, Alexander-Arnold reflected on his memories of Jota after having previously paid tribute on social media.
With tears in his eyes, the England international told DAZN: “First and foremost, I want to extend my condolences, thoughts, love, and prayers to the family of my dear friend.
‘It’s been very emotional’
“This has been incredibly difficult for me and for everyone who knew him—not just teammates, friends, and family, but also the wider football community.
“It has been heartwarming and emotional to witness the football world unite to show their love and support for him and his family, especially for his brother.
“While it has been challenging, the collective display of support from clubs and individuals has provided comfort, showcasing unity during this heartbreaking time for his family.
“I have been close to him and his family: his wonderful wife, his parents, and his three amazing children. It’s truly devastating to wake up to such news. It’s something no one can ever fully prepare for.
“He was a very close friend, someone who could brighten any room with his presence. I spent five years sharing a dressing room with him, creating unforgettable memories both on and off the pitch.
“He will always be remembered and cherished for the incredible person and player he was.”
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