Kylian Mbappe will be the center of attention in the second semi-final at MetLife Stadium, as he faces his former team of seven seasons. The 26-year-old forward holds PSG's all-time scoring record with 256 goals. But in this upcoming match, he will be playing against his old club.

Mbappe is also currently in a legal dispute with PSG over unpaid wages. However, just days before the match, the Real Madrid star withdrew a lawsuit against PSG for harassment and extortion.

Mbappe celebrates Real Madrid's third goal against Dortmund in the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-final at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA, 25/7/2025. *Photo: Reuters*

This clash in New Jersey is not just about Mbappe. The match will feature some of the best players in the world. PSG boasts goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, defenders Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, midfielder Vitinha, and forwards Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Real Madrid also has its share of stars, including goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, midfielder Jude Bellingham, and forwards Vinicius Junior and Mbappe.

The matchup between Mbappe and his close friend Hakimi is another exciting prospect. This season, the Moroccan defender has been impressive with 11 goals and 15 assists in 53 games. His attacking prowess is highly regarded, but the 26-year-old will have his hands full containing both Mbappe and Vinicius. Furthermore, Hakimi will also be facing his former club, Real Madrid.

While the media focuses on Mbappe and Vinicius, Real Madrid's standout forward in the tournament so far has been Gonzalo Garcia. The 21-year-old from Madrid currently leads the Golden Boot race with 4 goals and one assist. No other player still in the competition has scored more than two goals. Therefore, Garcia is the likely favorite to win the award.

Coach Luis Enrique during PSG's match against Seattle Sounders in the group stage of the FIFA Club World Cup at Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington, USA, 23/6/2025. *Photo: Reuters*

The battle between Mendes and Trent on PSG's left flank also promises to be captivating. The Portuguese international is widely considered the best left-back in the world, while Trent is a renowned attacking right-back. Mendes has successfully shut down numerous star players this season, including Bukayo Saka, Lamine Yamal, and Lionel Messi.

Real Madrid has a slight edge in the head-to-head record, with 4 wins, two draws, and two losses in 8 encounters with PSG. However, Luis Enrique's team is in better form, having won every possible trophy in the past year.

PSG won their first Champions League title after securing the most decisive victory in the final's history against Inter. Real Madrid, on the other hand, are the kings of Europe with 15 European Cup/Champions League titles. This match is somewhat akin to a reigning king facing a retired emperor.

However, the "retired emperor" is currently in a transitional phase under new coach Xabi Alonso. Real Madrid is said to be playing with more discipline compared to the Carlo Ancelotti era. But their effectiveness will only be truly tested after the match against PSG.

Hoang An