Gareth Bale scored the winner for Real Madrid ©Getty Images

Real Madrid are one win away from a third Club World Cup title in four years after Gareth Bale scored a late winner to defeat Al-Jazira at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi.

Welshman Bale scored moments after coming on a substitute as he continues his recovery from a calf injury in September.

Brazilian forward Romarinho had given the United Arab Emirates champions a shock lead in the first-half before Cristiano Ronaldo equalised for the double European Champions League winners.

Ronaldo's goal made him the all-time FIFA Club World Cup scorer with six.

Real Madrid will now face Brazilian team Gremio in the final on Saturday (December 16).

Al-Jazira celebrate after taking a shock lead against Real Madrid ©Getty Images
Al-Jazira celebrate after taking a shock lead against Real Madrid ©Getty Images

"It is great to get a goal," said Bale afterwards. 

"When you come on you like to make an impact like that. 

"The most important thing is to get the win and get into the final."

Competition is taking place in the UAE for the first time, with the country having been awarded the 2017 and 2018 events in March 2015.

Real Madrid won the competition in 2014 as well as 2016, so are chasing a third title in four years.