Borussia Dortmund are set to meet Mexican side Monterrey in the Round of 16 of the FIFA Club World Cup on Tuesday, with striker Serhou Guirassy expressing his enthusiasm at the prospect of facing legendary defender Sergio Ramos.
The highly anticipated fixture, scheduled for 1 July 2025, marks a significant test for the Bundesliga giants as they take on a Monterrey team bolstered by the presence of the former Real Madrid captain.
Ramos, now 39, remains an influential figure at the heart of Monterrey’s defence, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a fierce competitive spirit that has defined his storied career.
Speaking ahead of the match, Dortmund forward Guirassy revealed his excitement at the opportunity to compete against one of the game’s most iconic defenders. “I want to play against Sergio Ramos,” the striker said. “He’s a great defender. We’ll have to be solid, that’s all.”
Guirassy, who finished joint top scorer in the most recent UEFA Champions League campaign with 13 goals, is widely regarded as one of Dortmund’s most lethal attacking threats.
His physical presence and clinical finishing will be key if the German side are to unlock a Monterrey backline marshalled by Ramos.
Borussia Dortmund head coach Niko Kovač also addressed the threat posed by the veteran Spaniard during his pre-match press conference. The former Bayern Munich manager was quick to praise Ramos’ enduring influence on the pitch.
“He’s a superstar, you know,” said Kovač. “Players who last that long… it says a lot about their mentality. They’re winners—hungry to win in every training session, in every match. They strive for excellence in every move.”
Ramos, a four-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid and former Spain international, has enjoyed a decorated career spanning nearly two decades.
Despite his age, he continues to compete at a high level and remains a symbol of leadership and resilience for Monterrey.
His presence is expected to be pivotal in Tuesday’s encounter, as Monterrey aim to neutralise a Dortmund attack that blends youth and experience.
While Guirassy may be relishing the chance to test himself against Ramos, Dortmund are under no illusions about the difficulty of the task ahead.
The match marks a crucial step in the German side’s pursuit of Club World Cup glory, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
For Monterrey, the contest offers a chance to demonstrate their strength on the global stage and prove they can compete with Europe’s elite.
As the teams prepare for kickoff, all eyes will be on the individual battle between Guirassy and Ramos—a showdown that promises to add intrigue and drama to a tournament already filled with narrative.
With both players known for their intensity and commitment, fans can expect a fiercely contested affair between two sides hungry for international success.
The result on Tuesday could well hinge on whether Guirassy can outwit the seasoned defender or if Ramos will once again rise to the occasion with a masterclass in defensive prowess. Either way, it is a meeting of generations that underscores the enduring appeal of the global game.
