The Mexican side, led by manager Domènec Torrent, finished second in Group E after drawing with Inter Milan and River Plate and delivering a dominant 4-0 win over Urawa Red Diamonds, a result that saw them become the first non-European team to score three first-half goals in this year’s tournament.

Speaking ahead of the match, Sergio Canales emphasized Monterrey’s belief that they can compete with any team in the world. “We can compete with anyone,” he told reporters, underscoring the team’s ambition to make history by advancing to the quarterfinals.

Torrent’s tactical flexibility—changing systems in each group stage match—has kept opponents guessing, and the return of Canales and Lucas Ocampos to the starting lineup is expected to boost Rayados’ attacking options. Monterrey’s defensive structure, anchored by Sergio Ramos, will be tested, but the squad’s experience against European opposition this tournament has strengthened their resolve.

Dortmund Favored, But Monterrey Have Momentum

Borussia Dortmund enter the fixture as clear favorites, having topped Group F with seven points and extending their unbeaten run to ten matches across all competitions. The German side, managed by Niko Kovač, has yet to deliver a dominant display in the tournament but boasts a versatile attack led by Karim Adeyemi and the emerging Jobe Bellingham, who has contributed both goals and assists in the group stage.

Despite Dortmund’s pedigree and the statistical edge—European teams have historically dominated these matchups—Monterrey’s unbeaten run and tactical discipline offer hope for an upset. The Rayados have only progressed from two of their seven previous Club World Cup knockout-stage games, but their group-stage draw with Inter Milan and defensive solidity suggest they are well-prepared for the challenge.

The match, set at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, is expected to be a high-tempo affair, with both teams likely to press for an early goal.

Key Players and Match Dynamics

Sergio Canales’s creativity and composure will be crucial for Monterrey as they look to unlock Dortmund’s back line, while Ramos’s leadership at the back will be vital against Dortmund’s pace and movement. For Dortmund, Jobe Bellingham’s ability to influence play in multiple positions and Adeyemi’s speed could be decisive factors.

Both teams will be at full strength, and Monterrey’s confidence is matched by their tactical adaptability. While Dortmund are favored to advance, Monterrey’s recent form and belief make this one of the most intriguing matchups of the Club World Cup’s knockout round.