History beckons Real at FIFA Club World Cup

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Bengaluru/Abu Dhabi, December 12: History beckons champions Real Madrid as they face local club Al Jazira in the semifinals of the FIFA Club World Cup at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (December 13).

No team has defended the title in FIFA Club World Cup history as Real hope to break the jinx this time.

But it is easier said than done and coach Zinedine Zidane was understandably guarded, especially after the scare of falling behind to Kashima Antlers in last year's final before Cristiano Ronaldo did the rescue act with a hat-trick which helped them win the tournament in extra-time.

Ronaldo, will once again be the key at the Zayed Sports City Stadium. He scored twice at the weekend in the 5-0 La Liga rout of Sevilla to celebrate his fifth Ballon d'Or.

His return to form is timely, as Real brace up for the El Clasico against Barcelona on December 23 once their job in the Middle East is accomplished.

"It's a reward just to be here," said Real skipper Sergio Ramos.

"We've the opportunity to defend our title. We're preparing with plenty of desire and excitement. After a great game against Sevilla we're very motivated and our confidence is very high."

Jazira are no pushovers though, as they proved by beating strong teams like New Zealand's Auckland City and Asian champions Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan en route to reaching the last four and they can bank on the crowd support as well.

If Real crosses the Jazira hurdle, then a potential final with Brazilian giants Gremio looms large.

The newly crowned South American champions are expected to beat Mexican side Pachuca in the other last-four encounter.

If they clinch the title on Saturday (December 16), it also will be Real's fifth of the season following triumphs in La Liga, the Champions League, UEFA and Spanish Super Cup and they can round off the most successful year in the club's history.

The match against Jazira begins at 9pm local time (10.30pm IST)