Xabi Alonso faces tactical dilemma ahead of Club World Cup semi-final vs PSG | OneFootball

Real Madrid take on Paris Saint-Germain tonight in a high-stakes Club World Cup semi-final, a match already hit by off-field disruption after their flight from Miami to New York was delayed due to bad weather.

Despite the logistical setback, all focus now shifts to Xabi Alonso and the key decisions he must make, particularly in defence.

The absence of Dean Huijsen, suspended following a straight red card in the dying minutes of the win over Borussia Dortmund, leaves Alonso with a major selection headache.

Although still new to the squad, Huijsen had quickly become central to Real Madrid’s build-up play.

His calmness under pressure and ability to play out from the back had solved a lingering issue from last season, making him a vital part of the team’s structure.

Who will partner with Rudiger?

With Huijsen unavailable, the likely starter is Antonio Rudiger, but who will partner him remains unclear.

Alonso faces serious selection dilemma. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

The most natural option, Raul Asencio, has been out of form, with mistakes during the tournament costing Madrid defensively. His recent dip has raised serious doubts about whether he can handle PSG’s high-intensity press.

As a result, Xabi Alonso may be forced to turn to a less conventional choice, Aurelien Tchouameni. The French midfielder has filled in at centre-back before and has the composure and passing range needed to build from the back.

However, using him in defence would weaken Madrid’s midfield, which will be crucial in controlling the rhythm against a possession-heavy PSG.

This defensive uncertainty is something PSG manager Luis Enrique will look to exploit. The former Barcelona boss is known for identifying weaknesses in ball distribution from the back, a tactic that famously rattled Ronald Araújo in last year’s Champions League.

If Madrid fail to cope under pressure, it could be the difference between reaching the final or going home.

Tonight’s clash will be decided by fine margins, and Alonso’s call at centre-back could quietly define Real Madrid’s fate.