Real Madrid’s highly anticipated encounter with Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinal of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 ended in a devastating 0-4 loss, marking one of the club’s most disappointing performances in recent years.
Among the most scrutinized players in the aftermath were defenders Antonio Rudiger and Marco Asencio, whose early mistakes were pivotal in shaping the match’s outcome.
The match turned against the Spanish side within the first ten minutes. Marco Asencio, attempting to control the ball inside Real Madrid’s penalty area, misjudged a simple touch, allowing PSG’s Ousmane Dembele to capitalize. The French winger swiftly intercepted the ball and assisted Fabian Ruiz for the opening goal.
Shortly afterward, Antonio Rudiger committed an unforced error by misplacing a pass under no immediate pressure. Dembele once again took advantage, seizing the ball and scoring PSG’s second goal past Thibaut Courtois.
These critical moments led to the lowest player ratings of the match from statistical site Whoscored, which awarded Asencio a 4.9 and Rudiger a 4.7.
The performance of both players sparked widespread criticism from Real Madrid supporters and football analysts alike. Social media reactions were particularly harsh, with fans calling for the duo’s departure and labeling their display as among the worst of the tournament.
Rudiger, whose recent seasons have been hampered by injuries and declining form, remains under contract with Real Madrid until 2026. Asencio, despite early comparisons to club legend Sergio Ramos, has yet to deliver the level of consistency expected at the elite level.
The defeat to PSG has raised significant questions about Real Madrid’s defensive stability and strategic depth, especially as the team prepares for future challenges in both domestic and international competitions.