Real Madrid decimated their opponents, the Japanese side Kashima Antlers, in the semi-final of the Club World Cup, courtesy of a brilliant hat-trick from the Welsh superstar Gareth Bale. The forward clinched his hat-trick in just 11 minutes, putting the whole opposition defence to shame and getting his side into the final of the prestigious tournament to face UAE side Al-Ain.
Al-Ain were the shock entrants into the final of the Club World Cup as they defeated Copa Libertadores champions River Plate on penalties in the semi-final. The Argentine side were firm favourites to meet the Galacticos in the final, but it would be Al-Ain who faces them.
Team News
It would come as a big blow for Santiago Solari that Karim Benzema has picked up a leg injury which might see him sit out in the final of the Club World Cup. Nacho Fernandez will not play any part in the next match as well.
Goalkeeper
Thibaut Courtois had a good game against Kashima as he conceded only one goal to help his side get into the final. He would start in the final against Al-Ain.
Defence
The duo of skipper Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane are expected to start in the heart of the defence for the Galacticos. Marcelo would put in a shift from the left-hand side while Dani Carvajal would start as the right back.
Midfield
Toni Kroos and Luka Modric would start in the heart of the midfield. Solari might not risk Casemiro in the final, and Marcos Llorente could start in the defensive midfielder position once again.
Attack
With Karim Benzema unsure to start in the final, Marco Asensio is tipped to lead the line for the Galacticos in the final against Al-Ain. He would be accompanied by Lucas Vazquez on the right as the hat-trick hero from the last match, Gareth Bale, would start on the left as the wide attacker.
Predicted Formation: 4-3-3
