Real Madrid strike a pose ahead of Fifa Club World Cup semi-final in Abu Dhabi

The European champions were preparing at Zayed Sports City with their last-four clash with Kashima Antlers taking place on Wednesday at 8.30pm

Ian Oxborrow
Dec 19, 2018
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Real Madrid are in the mood to defend their Club World Cup crown.

The European champions took time out from training at Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi to strike a pose showing that they mean business.

"We defend the greatest badge in the world. Ready for tomorrow!" captain Sergio Ramos posted on his Instagram account next to a picture of him with his fists raised surrounded by teammates including Marcelo, Karim Benzema and Gareth Bale.

Having held training on Monday at NYUAD on Saadiyat Island, Real took the opportunity last night to reacquaint themselves with the Zayed Sports City pitch ahead of this evening's semi-final against Asian Champions League winners Kashima Antlers of Japan.

The two clubs met in the final in 2016 in Yokohama when Madrid ran out 4-2 winners after extra-time.

The winner of Wednesday's match will meet Al Ain in the final after they stunned the Copa Libertadores champions River Plate 5-4 on penalties after 2-2 draw at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium.

Real fans will be hoping to see Bale in action after he missed the 1-0 victory over Rayo Vallecano at the weekend due to injury. Benzema, who scored the only goal in that match, was forced off through injury. Both took part in training, which included the regularly seen rondo exercise which is essentially a game of keep-ball.

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Read more:

Santiago Solari: Real Madrid wary of Kashima Antlers 'challenge' in Fifa Club World Cup semi-final

Real Madrid in Abu Dhabi: Ramos and Benzema take to social media while Isco shows off skills at NYUAD

Al Ain celebrate Club World Cup semi-final win over River Plate

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