Real Madrid get Asian or New Zealand team in Club World Cup semifinals

Real Madrid are aiming to become the first team to win back-to-back Club World Cups. (Source: AP)

Real Madrid will face an opponent from Asia or New Zealand in the Club World Cup semifinals. FIFA made the draw Monday for the seven-team tournament for continental champions. It will be played Dec. 6-16 in the United Arab Emirates cities Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Only four teams are known so far because the South American, Asian and African championships are at the semifinal stage.

The Club World Cup opens with UAE league winner Al Jazira playing Oceania champion Auckland City. The winner will play Asia’s champion for the right to face Madrid.

In the other half of the bracket, CONCACAF champion Pachuca plays Africa’s champion. The winner advances to meet the Copa Libertadores winner.

European teams have won nine of the past 10 titles.