- Forward Serhou Guirassy, who joined from VfB Stuttgart, gave Dortmund a perfect start by slotting one in the 14th minute following a well-executed play on the right side.
- Just ten minutes later, he added to his tally with a calm finish from close range, taking advantage of a mistake in Monterrey's defence.
Borussia Dortmund progressed to the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup after securing a 2–1 victory against CF Monterrey of Mexico at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on June 1, 2025.
The German team, rejuvenated under new coach Niko Kovač, made a phenomenal start with two quick goals from Serhou Guirassy, which proved sufficient to withstand Monterrey's determined response in the second half.
The match kicked off at a high tempo, with Dortmund establishing control from the outset. Forward Serhou Guirassy, who joined from VfB Stuttgart, gave Dortmund a perfect start by slotting one in the 14th minute following a well-executed play on the right side.
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Just ten minutes later, he added to his tally with a calm finish from close range, taking advantage of a mistake in Monterrey's defence. It was a well-deserved double for the Guinean striker, who continues to shine with his sharp finishing.
However, Monterrey refused to give in easily. They came out for the second half with renewed vigour and quickly equalised with a goal from Germán Berterame, who outjumped Dortmund defenders to head in a well-placed cross just three minutes after the break.
This goal sparked excitement among the Mexican fans in attendance and shifted the momentum in favour of Monterrey.
Dortmund's defence, tested thoroughly during the second half, withstood the mounting pressure aptly. Goalkeeper Gregor Kobel made several crucial saves, while Mats Hummels and Nico Schlotterbeck led the backline with their experience and determination.
Despite Monterrey's late possession dominance, they couldn't find an equaliser, and Dortmund clung to their hard-earned win.
However, the victory came with a downside. Jobe Bellingham was shown a yellow card in the 28th minute—his second of the tournament—meaning he will miss Dortmund's upcoming match.
His absence in the much-anticipated quarter-final against Real Madrid will be significant, particularly as it deprives fans of a potential showdown between the Bellingham brothers, with Jude playing for Madrid.
With this win, Dortmund becomes the fifth European club to earn a spot in the quarter-finals of the restructured Club World Cup, joining the ranks of Manchester City, Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Inter Milan.
The tournament, expanded to 32 teams and hosted in the United States for the inaugural time, has highlighted the competitiveness and depth of club football globally.
Dortmund's next task is a formidable one: a quarter-final battle against the reigning European champions Real Madrid on Saturday, July 5, in New Jersey.
Madrid advanced after narrowly defeating Juventus 1–0 and will represent a significant challenge with their wealth of world-class players.
Although Dortmund may head into the matchup as underdogs, their recent performances and the confidence instilled by Kovač since he took over earlier this year are likely to boost their morale.
