FIFA Club World Cup: PSG remain favourites but threats loom in semi final showdown

Femi Fabunmi

After three weeks of intense football from 32 club sides drawn across various leagues across the world in a new format FIFA World Club Cup holding in the United States, four team comprising of three European sides and one South American team have reached the semi-final of the tournament.

The four teams still remaining are, Paris Saint Germain (PSG) who came out tops from group B, Chelsea qualified after finishing second in group D, Real Madrid and Fluminese complete the teams vying for honours in the competition.

Chelsea are looking strong after a difficult season, manager, Enzo Maresca, has helped the team play better in every game.

Chelsea reached the semi-finals by beating Palmeiras 2-1 with a late own goal. They will now play against Fluminense from Brazil at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Tuesday at 9:00 pm NIgerian time.

This match will be special because Fluminense have Thiago Silva, who is 40 years old and used to play for Chelsea. He is still a strong defender and will want to help his team reach the final.

Fluminense have surprised many people. They beat Ulsan HD 4-2 and drew 0-0 with Borussia Dortmund and Mamelodi Sundowns. Even though they were not expected to go far, they have played well as a team and are now close to the final.

Real Madrid are also in the semi-finals. Their new manager, Xabi Alonso, is trying to build a new style for the team. Madrid attack well but sometimes find it hard to defend because they do not foul enough to stop counter attacks. Even with this problem, Madrid still have strong players and always believe they can win.

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have been the best defensive team in the tournament. People know them for their strong attack, but this time they have also defended very well.

They allow very few shots and win the ball back quickly. Last season, PSG won their first UEFA Champions League title by beating Inter Milan 5-0, and they are playing with the same confidence again.

Chelsea are improving in every game, while Fluminense are the surprise team of the competition. Real Madrid still need to play more smoothly to win, and PSG are showing their usual flashes of brilliance.

Many fans think PSG are the favourites because of their recent success, but at this stage, any of the four teams can win the trophy.

The world is waiting to see which club will become the new champion later this week.