Real Madrid vs. Kashima Antlers: FIFA Club World Cup Final Live Stream, TV Info

Real Madrid are expected to win the FIFA Club World Cup in Japan on Sunday, but surprise finalists Kashima Antlers will be hoping to cause one of the greatest shocks in history when they battle the Galacticos on home soil.

The J1 League champions thrashed Colombian side Atletico Nacional 3-0 in Osaka to set up the marquee match with the UEFA Champions League holders in Yokohama.

Here is how you can watch the final.

Date: Sunday, December 18

Time: 5:30 a.m. ET/10:30 a.m. GMT

Venue: International Stadium, Yokohama, Japan

TV Info: Fox Sports 1 (U.S. only)

Live Stream: Fox Soccer 2Go (U.S. only)

    
Preview

In terms of global finals, this is one of the biggest mismatches in recent memory, but Real will attempt to add to their trophy haul against the champions of Japan.

The Antlers—representing the Asian Confederation—have stretched their home-soil advantage all the way, qualifying for the knockout rounds after a play-off win against Auckland City.

Clubs from Central America and South America are normally expected to rival European teams in the final, but the Japanese have been the tournament's surprise package.

Etsuo Hara/Getty Images

Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates now await Kashima, and the intimidation factor will be prevalent on Sunday.

Madrid defeated Club America 2-0 in the semi-final to book their spot, and they will feel they have already done the hard work to win the trophy.

Real manager Zinedine Zidane explained their intentions in the competition, per FIFA.com:

"

We wanted to advance to the Club World Cup final and we were able to achieve just that. In the first half, we were unable to capture the right rhythm, but after the break I thought we played well. We created many opportunities and I’m satisfied with the match. We only have a few days before Sunday and we travelled a long distance to get here, so we want to make sure we’re well-rested. Our goal is to win the Club World Cup. The players are very motivated. The only thing we’re thinking about is winning this tournament.

"

Karim Benzema and Ronaldo were the heroes as their side progressed, with Madrid fielding a strong starting XI to get the job done with little fuss.

The Mexican team managed to keep the score respectable, despite substantial pressure from the Liga giants.

Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images

Osaka danced with joy as Antlers defeated Los Verdolagas 3-0 at the Suita City Football Stadium, but they do not have the firepower to trouble a streetwise Real defence.

There is a huge gulf in talent between the combatants, and Ronaldo will be unstoppable as Real attempt to win the title for a second time. 

Kashima Antlers coach Masatada Ishii was emotional after his side made history to reach the final, per FIFA.com:

"

We’ve made it to the final, which is an achievement for Kashima Antlers and Japanese football as a whole. It’s a whole new story for us and I’m delighted about that. We really wanted to go and win this game, and all the players were committed and contributed to the win. They posed a threat on several occasions, but we defended very well as a team, just as we’ve been doing all season. We’re here as the host club, but one day we’d like to take part in this competition as the representatives of Asia.

"

Antlers have incredible heart, but they will need to guard their final third of the pitch with precision to stay in the game.

However, if Los Blancos come out firing, the final could be decided in the first half if they break the Japanese club's defensive structure with incisive football and ruthless aggression.