Cruz Azul forward Mariano Pavone has insisted that his side can overcome Real Madrid in the semi-finals of the Club World Cup.

Real Madrid will enter Tuesday's match as the overwhelming favourites to progress to the final, but Pavone is confident that the Mexicans can cause an upset.

"We know the strength of Real Madrid, their stars, and all about their 20-game winning streak, but with our humility, determination and hard work we'll try to get there," he told FIFA.com.

"We must be focused and take our chances but we have players out wide who are quick and can exploit the fact Madrid play high up the pitch, but it will need to be a game where we are at 110% and they have a bad day."

Pavone was twice on the winning side against Real Madrid during his time with Real Betis.