Mbappe to Make Club World Cup Debut as Real Madrid Face Juventus in Last 16 Showdown

Mbappe to Make Club World Cup Debut as Real Madrid Face Juventus in Last 16 Showdown

MIAMI, July 1 — Kylian Mbappe is poised to make his Club World Cup debut as Real Madrid face Juventus in the last 16 at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday — a major boost for the 15-time European champions.‍

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MIAMI, July 1 — Kylian Mbappe is poised to make his Club World Cup debut as Real Madrid face Juventus in the last 16 at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday — a major boost for the 15-time European champions.

“There’s a strong chance,” said Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso during Monday’s press conference, when asked if the French star — who missed all three group stage games due to acute gastroenteritis — would return.

Mbappe’s comeback coincides with the return of Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao, further strengthening the squad.

“Dani and Eder are both returning after long-term recoveries. Having them back helps not just them, but the entire team,” Alonso said. “At this crucial stage, every player — whether starting or supporting — plays an important role.”

Alonso, who recently took charge, emphasized the importance of team unity.

“We’re aiming for a team that functions as one unit — committed in and out of possession. That collective strength is what will let players like Vinicius, Mbappe, Rodrygo, and Bellingham excel,” he said.

On the other side, Juventus coach Igor Tudor acknowledged the tough draw but stressed that his team was here to compete, not just prepare for next season.

“We have a quality squad. The draw wasn’t ideal, but we’ve accepted it,” Tudor said. “We need to believe, run hard, give everything, minimize mistakes — and have a bit of luck. The players believe, I believe, and we’ll see how it unfolds.”

Tudor also praised Real Madrid’s tactical transformation under Alonso, drawing comparisons to the Spaniard’s work with Bayer Leverkusen.

“Their last game resembled Alonso’s Leverkusen — similar tactics, structure, and style. He’s already made a clear impact,” Tudor noted, adding that Madrid still have “some weaknesses we might be able to exploit.”

The winner of this match will go on to face either Borussia Dortmund or Monterrey, who will square off in Atlanta on Tuesday. — Reuters

Kylian Mbappe of Real Madrid seen during training at Gardens North County District Park in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, on June 30, 2025. — Reuters pic

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