Wed Jul 02 00:10:00 UTC 2025: **Dortmund Favored But Face Stern Test Against Monterrey in Club World Cup Round of 16**

**Jeddah, Saudi Arabia -** Borussia Dortmund are set to clash with Liga MX side Monterrey on Tuesday, July 1st, in a highly anticipated Club World Cup round of 16 match. Dortmund, who topped Group F with seven points, are considered favorites, but Monterrey have proven their mettle, progressing from Group E after impressive draws against Inter Milan and River Plate, followed by a dominant win over Urawa Red Diamonds.

While Dortmund have secured wins against Mamelodi Sundowns and Ulsan HD, their performances haven’t been entirely convincing. The German side’s defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the match against Sundowns, something Monterrey will aim to exploit. Dortmund will be hoping for a more convincing defensive display in this match.

Monterrey, managed by Domènec Torrent, are showing rapid improvement. Their unexpected win against Urawa Red Diamonds, which saw them progress at River Plates expense, demonstrated the team’s tactical flexibility and determination. Although Dortmund is favored they are not overlooking what the Liga MX side can accomplish.

Dortmund manager Niko Kovač is likely to deploy a back-three similar to the one that faced Ulsan HD, seeking defensive stability. Jobe Bellingham has been a standout performer for Dortmund and Julian Brandt is expected to re-enter the lineup. Monterrey, meanwhile, will welcome back Jorge Rodríguez from suspension to anchor their midfield.

“This is a big game for us but we can’t take them lightly,” Kovač said in a press conference Monday “Monterrey has some great talent and we will need to be at our best to beat them.”

Analysts predict a tight contest, with Dortmund likely dominating possession, while Monterrey will focus on counter-attacks and set-piece opportunities. Speed of Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy and Adeyemi, will be key for Dortmund to open up Monterrey’s strong defense, while Sergio Canales will lead Monterrey’s attack against Dortmund’s suspect back line.

**Predicted Lineups:**

* **Borussia Dortmund (3-4-2-1):** Kobel; Couto, Anton, Bensebaini; Ryerson, Groß, Bellingham, Svensson; Brandt, Adeyemi; Guirassy.
* **Monterrey (3-5-2):** Andrada; Medina, Ramos, Guzmán; Chavez, Deossa, Rodríguez, Corona, Arteaga; Canales, Berterame

**Prediction:**

The match is expected to go to extra time, where Dortmund will ultimately prevail in a closely fought battle. *Prediction: Borussia Dortmund 2–1 Monterrey.*

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