FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Guide: Format, Favorites, and Where to Watch

Everything is new in the biggest club competition on the planet! The FIFA Club World Cup — or Super Club World Cup, for those more familiar — will debut with a brand-new format designed to make the tournament even more competitive. There will be 32 teams and the same structure used in the FIFA World Cup for national teams. With more clubs involved, there are even more chances to enjoy the thrill of the matches and Sports Betting!

The host country is the United States, which will also co-host the Men's FIFA World Cup next year. The new tournament will run from June 14 to July 13, using 12 stadiums across 11 different cities in the U.S.

We spent the entire week revisiting the history of the FIFA Club World Cup, and now it’s time to focus on the present: everything you need to know about the 2025 edition — which teams are playing, each club’s key highlights, and of course, where to watch it. Let’s go?

How does the new FIFA Club World Cup format work?

Viewed differently by each confederation, the Club World Cup has undergone a major revamp to make it more attractive for all participants. That's why FIFA decided to create a new tournament to be held every four years — replacing the Confederations Cup, which used to take place the year before the national teams’ World Cup.

The 2025 Club World Cup marks the first edition of this new format, which does not completely replace the traditional FIFA Club World Cups. As we explained in our article about the Intercontinental Cup, those events will still take place in December, but under a new name: FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

As mentioned in the introduction, the Super Club World Cup will follow the same structure as the FIFA World Cup held from 1998 to 2022. The 32 teams are divided into eight groups of four. The Group Stage consists of three rounds, with each team playing one match against every opponent in their group. The top two from each group advance to the Knockout Stage — which includes the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Final — all played as single-leg matches.

There will be a total of 63 matches in the tournament. In the Knockout Stage, if a match ends in a draw, it goes to extra time and, if needed, a penalty shootout to determine the winner.

And yes, the winner of the new tournament can definitely brag about beating tougher opponents — but they won’t be the only world champions moving forward. The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup launches a new era but remains unified with both the original FIFA Club World Cup created in 2000 and the Intercontinental Cup.

How are the spots distributed for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup?

FIFA's Council determined the allocation of slots for each confederation based on metrics, coefficients, performance in FIFA tournaments, and other criteria.

Each continent qualified its respective continental champions from the past four years, except Oceania (OFC), which received only one slot — awarded to the best-performing club in the period. The United States received an automatic slot as the host nation.

CAF, AFC, and CONCACAF each received four slots. CONMEBOL was granted six due to being the second-best confederation in terms of FIFA’s World Championship Wins, while UEFA received 12 spots for being the tournament’s most dominant confederation — holding 12 consecutive titles.

It’s worth noting that the additional South American and European spots were awarded to the highest-ranked teams that didn’t win a continental title in the last four years. However, no more than two clubs per country were allowed through this method.

Additionally, FIFA prohibited the participation of clubs owned by the same group. León, for example, lost its place because it shares ownership with Pachuca. As a result, León's slot was passed on to the winner of a CONCACAF playoff — LAFC.

Which stadiums will host the 2025 Club World Cup?

Most venues for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup are located on the U.S. East Coast. Florida will host three stadiums: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, and both Camping World Stadium and Inter&Co Stadium in Orlando. The opening match will take place in Miami, as Inter Miami was selected as the U.S. representative.

The MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, representing both New York and New Jersey, will host the final. Also nearby are Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia and Audi Field in Washington, D.C.

A bit more central but still close to the East Coast, we have TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, and Geodis Park in Nashville. On the West Coast, there are just two venues: Lumen Field in Seattle and the iconic Rose Bowl in Pasadena.

Which Teams Will Play in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

As tournament host, the United States will have three teams: Inter Miami, LAFC, and Seattle Sounders — the only CONCACAF Champions League winner. Mexico will fill the remaining two CONCACAF slots with Monterrey and Pachuca, champions in 2021 and 2024, respectively.

Brazil will have the largest number of representatives at the Super Club World Cup: Palmeiras, Flamengo, Fluminense, and Botafogo helped the country maintain its streak of six consecutive Libertadores titles. Boca Juniors and River Plate secured the other two CONMEBOL spots.

The AFC and CAF each have four spots. Representing Asia are Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal, Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds, South Korea’s Ulsan HD, and Al Ain from the UAE. From Africa: Egypt’s Al Ahly, Morocco’s Wydad Casablanca, Tunisia’s Espérance, and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns.

Europe has the most slots, with 12 UEFA teams participating. Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid represent Spain, while Champions League winners Chelsea and Manchester City will try to bring the title to England.

PSG will represent France as the current continental champion, while Austria has just one team: Red Bull Salzburg. Italy sends Internazionale and Juventus, Germany will be represented by Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, and Portugal has Porto and Benfica.

The final spot goes to Auckland City from New Zealand. A four-time OFC Champions League winner, the team secured its place in December 2023.

What Are the Groups for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025?

Ready to see what to expect from each team? Here's what matters most: the groups.

• Group A: Inter Miami, Al Ahly, Palmeiras, Porto
• Group B: PSG, Botafogo, Atlético de Madrid, Seattle Sounders
• Group C: Bayern Munich, Benfica, Boca Juniors, Auckland City
• Group D: Chelsea, Flamengo, Espérance, Los Angeles FC
• Group E: Monterrey, Internazionale, River Plate, Urawa Reds
• Group F: Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense, Mamelodi Sundowns, Ulsan HD
• Group G: Manchester City, Juventus, Al-Ain, Wydad Casablanca
• Group H: Real Madrid, Al-Hilal, Red Bull Salzburg, Al-Ain

Group A

Hosts Inter Miami lead Group A, but the Florida side is widely seen as only the third strongest in the group. Al Ahly is Africa’s most successful club and faces a familiar foe in Palmeiras — a team it’s both beaten and been beaten by in previous Club World Cup encounters.

The group’s likely frontrunners are Palmeiras and Porto, with the Portuguese side slightly ahead in UEFA rankings, though Palmeiras is a South American powerhouse and could very well top the group.

Al Ahly

Egypt’s Al Ahly is the most decorated African club, having won the CAF Champions League in three of the last four seasons: 2020/21, 2022/23, and 2023/24. A regular in past FIFA Club World Cups, the Red Devils have finished third on three occasions.

Manager

Jose Riveiro

Key Players

Midfielder Emam Ashour leads the Egyptian Premier League in scoring this season. Up front, Danish-Palestinian striker Wessam Abou Ali is a key attacking threat. The defense is anchored by veteran center-back Rami Rabia.

Expectations

Al Ahly is a clear underdog with odds of 11.0 to win the group, facing financially stronger squads with star-studded rosters.

Inter Miami

Winners of the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, Inter Miami earned their spot as tournament hosts. Led by Argentine coach Javier Mascherano, the team features global superstar Lionel Messi and finished with the best regular season record in last year’s MLS — despite falling short in the playoffs.

Manager

Javier Mascherano

Key Players

Messi needs no introduction. Alongside him are Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez and fellow ex-Barcelona teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets.

Expectations

Branded as more than just “Messi & Friends,” Inter Miami holds 4.3 odds to top the group, considered the third-best squad in Group A but capable of upsetting Porto or Palmeiras.

Palmeiras

Brazil’s dominant force under coach Abel Ferreira, Palmeiras returns to the Club World Cup as 2021 Copa Libertadores champions. The club reinforced its squad to strengthen its global ambitions — as discussed in our article on the 1951 Copa Rio.

Manager

Abel Ferreira

Key Players

At just 20 years old, striker Vitor Roque is already a key figure, with 4 goals in 29 appearances. Midfielder Raphael Veiga added 3 goals, while left-back Joaquín Piquerez has stood out in just 10 games this season.

Expectations

Alongside Flamengo, Palmeiras is a top contender to end Europe’s Club World Cup dominance. With odds of 2.9 to win the group and 6.5 to reach the semifinals, the Brazilian side has what it takes — but must bounce back from a tough loss to rivals Corinthians in the state championship final.

Porto

The only Portuguese club to ever win a world title, Porto enters the tournament after a couple of underwhelming domestic seasons. While not a title favorite, the Dragons are expected to lead the group alongside Palmeiras.

Coach

Martín Anselmi

Key Players

Spanish striker Samuel Aghehowa, just 21, scored 30 goals in 52 matches during the 2024/25 season. Winger Fábio Vieira is a regular offensive contributor, and left-back Francisco Moura is one to watch in defense.

Expectations

Porto’s odds of 2.4 to win the group show that this will be a tight race. The team finished third in Liga Portugal last season, and while their 17.0 odds to reach the final suggest a steep climb, they’re not to be underestimated.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1:

• June 14, 9 PM: Inter Miami vs Al Ahly
• June 15, 7 PM: Palmeiras vs Porto

Matchday 2:

• June 19, 1 PM: Palmeiras vs Al Ahly
• June 19, 4 PM: Inter Miami vs Porto

Matchday 3:

• June 23, 10 PM: Inter Miami vs Palmeiras
• June 23, 10 PM: Porto vs Al Ahly

Group B

After years of trying, PSG finally conquered Europe — and now the focus is on the world. The Parisians are the top contenders to advance and are expected to go far in the tournament.

Atlético de Madrid is the second-strongest team in Group B and also has good chances of qualifying. Botafogo, with several squad changes, enters as the third force and will need to fight hard to knock out one of the European giants. The true underdog, however, is Seattle Sounders, clearly behind the top three in terms of technical quality.

Atlético de Madrid

World champion in 1974, Atlético de Madrid has never won the Champions League but qualified for the Club World Cup due to its position in UEFA's ranking. Competitive and gritty under coach Diego Simeone, the Colchoneros are a dangerous cup team.

Manager

Diego Simeone

Key players

Just before the tournament, Atlético completed the permanent signing of Argentine goalkeeper Juan Musso, previously on loan from Atalanta. Veteran midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and forward Julián Álvarez are standouts from Argentina’s national team, along with club icon Antoine Griezmann.

Expectations

With a well-structured squad, Atlético will battle PSG for the top spot in Group B. Their odds to finish first are 2.5, just behind the French club. They are listed at 7.0 to reach the final.

Botafogo

Some things only happen to Botafogo. The current Copa Libertadores champion lost several key players after its historic title win and arrives with less hype than at the end of 2024. The team is currently 6th in the Brasileirão and advanced to the Round of 16 in this season’s Libertadores as group runner-up.

Manager

Renato Paiva

Key players

Botafogo has signed several reinforcements for this tournament. One of them is forward Joaquín Correa, bringing versatility up front. Promising Argentine midfielder Álvaro Montoro will support the attack. Veteran striker Igor Jesus, the club’s top scorer in 2025, remains a key figure.

Expectations

Drawn into a tough group, Botafogo is a long shot with odds of 11.0 to win Group B. But if anything is possible with this club, the new signings might turn the tide — and their 4.5 odds to reach the Quarterfinals suggest an upset isn’t out of the question.

Paris Saint-Germain

After countless investments and disappointments, PSG finally won the UEFA Champions League — and in dominant fashion, achieving the largest margin of victory ever in a final. That commanding performance makes Luis Enrique’s squad a serious contender for the world title.

Manager

Luis Enrique

Key players

French winger Ousmane Dembélé is injured but is expected to miss only the opener. Moroccan fullback Achraf Hakimi is a dynamic presence in defense and attack, and Georgian forward Khvicha Kvaratskhelia — who joined midseason — scored in the Champions League final.

Expectations

PSG are the clear favorites in Group B, with odds of 1.75 to finish top. Coming off the most prestigious continental title just weeks ago, the Parisians are now the second overall favorite to lift the Club World Cup trophy.

Seattle Sounders

Representing the host nation once more, the Seattle Sounders return to international competition after ending a 22-year drought for U.S. teams in the CONCACAF Champions League.

Manager

Brian Schmetzer

Key players

Slovak midfielder Albert Rusnák has been with Seattle since 2022 and played a key role in their continental title. Veteran Cristian Roldán has been a mainstay for a decade and plays alongside his brother, right-back Alex Roldán.

Expectations

Despite their past success, Seattle is the group’s clear underdog, with 20.0 odds to finish first. Even playing at home, they’ll have a hard time convincing the world it’s called “soccer” and not “football.”

Match Schedule

Matchday 1:

• June 15, 4 PM – PSG vs Atlético de Madrid
• June 15, 11 PM – Botafogo vs Seattle Sounders

Matchday 2:

• June 19, 7 PM – Seattle Sounders vs Atlético de Madrid
• June 19, 10 PM – PSG vs Botafogo

Matchday 3:

• June 23, 4 PM – Seattle Sounders vs PSG
• June 23, 4 PM – Atlético de Madrid vs Botafogo

Group C

Bayern Munich is the clear favorite to top Group C thanks to its superior squad and four FIFA world titles. The Bavarians will closely watch the duel between Benfica and Boca Juniors for second place — despite their struggles, the Argentinians are a force in continental play.

Meanwhile, Auckland City — the sole representative from Oceania — must defy all odds to make history. They are seen as the least likely team to win the tournament and would need a miracle to advance.

Auckland City

The only Oceania team in the FIFA Club World Cup, Auckland City earned its spot via OFC’s confederation ranking.

Manager

Albert Riera

Key players

Striker Myer Bevan and right-winger Haris Zeb have been key in the new season, scoring three goals each in five matches. At the back, Croatian-New Zealander Adam Mitchell brings stability.

Expectations

Auckland City are the biggest underdogs in the entire 2025 Club World Cup. Their group odds stand at 105.0, making even a Round of 16 appearance a potential fairy-tale story.

Bayern Munich

Germany’s most successful club, Bayern Munich qualified through UEFA’s four-year ranking and arrives as the second-most decorated club in FIFA world title history (four championships).

Manager

Vincent Kompany

Key players

Star striker Harry Kane scored 45 goals in 55 matches in his second season at the club. Midfielder Joshua Kimmich remains a reliable presence, and young French winger Michael Olise is showing great promise.

Expectations

Bayern always enters tournaments among the favorites. With 1.55 odds to win Group C and 8.0 to win the title, they’re aiming to send Thomas Müller off with a memorable farewell.

Benfica

The other European team in the group, Benfica pushed Sporting in the domestic title race and qualified for this tournament via UEFA’s ranking.

Manager

Bruno Lage

Key players

Turkish-Dutch midfielder Orkun Kökçü started 30 games, scoring 7 goals and assisting 7 more. He plays alongside Turkish left winger Kerem Aktürkoğlu. Veteran defender Nicolás Otamendi is also on the squad, though his future at the club remains uncertain.

Expectations

Despite being from UEFA, Benfica’s 4.5 odds to win Group C suggest a close fight with Boca Juniors — and a less than comfortable path to the Knockout Stage.

Boca Juniors

Eliminated before the group stage in the current Libertadores, Boca Juniors is having an unstable season. With coach Miguel Ángel Russo back at the helm, the Xeneizes hope to restore their mystique and remind everyone why they’re so feared — even in their “worst” moments.

Manager

Miguel Ángel Russo

Key players

Uruguayan striker Miguel Merentiel scored 7 goals in 21 matches so far in 2025. Goalkeeper Agustín Marchesín took over after veteran Sergio Romero’s knee surgery. The squad also includes legendary striker Edinson Cavani.

Expectations

With six Libertadores and three world titles, Boca can never be underestimated. Their 5.5 odds to top the group show they’re still a threat — and at the very least, serious contenders to reach the Knockouts.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1:

• June 15, 1 PM – Bayern Munich vs Auckland City
• June 16, 7 PM – Boca Juniors vs Benfica

Matchday 2:

• June 20, 1 PM – Benfica vs Auckland City
• June 20, 10 PM – Bayern Munich vs Boca Juniors

Matchday 3:

• June 24, 4 PM – Benfica vs Bayern Munich
• June 24, 4 PM – Auckland City vs Boca Juniors

Group D

Is Chelsea back? After some unstable years, the English club arrives at the Club World Cup with the momentum of a Conference League title — their first since the change of ownership — and will now test themselves against global powerhouses. Flamengo is considered the second strongest team in Group D, although some believe they have a real shot at topping the group over the Blues. One thing is certain: the battle between the two will revive the famous “ex-factor,” and whoever comes out on top should win the group.

Los Angeles FC claimed their spot at the last minute, inheriting León's place, and is the third force in the group. Espérance of Tunisia is the biggest underdog, and not many expect them to advance — although football always loves a surprise.

Chelsea

A lot has changed at Chelsea since their 2020/21 Champions League title: Roman Abramovich sold the club to Clearlake Capital, bringing in a new philosophy and transfer profile — and dismantling much of the old squad, with right-back Reece James being one of the few remaining. After years of turmoil, the Blues arrive with fresh memories of their Conference League win.

Manager

Enzo Maresca

Key players

A trio of relatively young stars lead Chelsea into the tournament. Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernández (24) made 55 appearances across club and country in 2024/25, scoring 9 goals. Spanish left-back Marc Cucurella (26) also played 55 matches and contributed 7 goals. And finally, English forward Cole Palmer (23) was the team’s top scorer with 15 goals.

Expectations

Chelsea is favored to win Group D, with odds of 1.55. Their biggest threat is Flamengo — and the “ex-factor,” as coach Filipe Luís and recent signing Jorginho both played for the Blues. Still, Chelsea is considered one of the main title contenders, aiming to turn past struggles into new glory.

Espérance

From Tunisia, Espérance de Tunis qualified via the CAF ranking as the most successful club in Tunisian league history.

Manager

Maher Kanzari

Key players

Left-back Amine Ben Hmida played the most matches this season. At 33, forward Youcef Belaili had a stellar year with 18 goals and 16 assists in 34 appearances. Brazilian striker Yan Sasse — originally from Rio Grande do Sul — was the second-highest scorer with 15 goals.

Expectations

Espérance is the group’s underdog, with 40.0 odds to win the group. Advancing to the knockouts will require a massive effort — but as we know, football is full of surprises.

Flamengo

One of Brazil’s biggest clubs, Flamengo enters the new FIFA Club World Cup as 2022 Copa Libertadores champions. The team has cemented itself among South America's elite and is one of the top non-European contenders for the title.

Manager

Filipe Luís

Key players

Flamengo’s main signing is Euro 2020 champion Jorginho, the Italo-Brazilian defensive midfielder. He joins stars like Uruguayan playmaker Giorgian De Arrascaeta and midfielder Gerson, who is playing his last matches before joining Zenit.

Expectations

Flamengo is Chelsea’s main rival for the top spot, and their clash has been anticipated since the draw. With 3.5 odds to win Group D, the Rubro-Negro is aiming to reverse the “ex-factor” storyline. Their overall title odds of 35.0 place them alongside Palmeiras as South America’s top threats to UEFA teams.

Los Angeles FC

Just weeks before the tournament, LAFC secured its place by winning a playoff against Club América (2–1 in extra time), inheriting the spot vacated by León.

Manager

Steve Cherundolo

Key players

Veteran French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is the team’s standout name. Brazilian midfielder Igor Jesus, formerly of Flamengo, is a starter, and French striker Olivier Giroud has also joined, scoring three goals in 14 matches this season.

Expectations

Despite playing at home, expectations are modest. LAFC has odds of 7.0 to top Group D, trailing far behind Chelsea and Flamengo. They'll need to ride their playoff momentum to stand a chance at advancing.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1

• June 16, 4 PM – Chelsea vs Los Angeles FC
• June 16, 10 PM – Flamengo vs Espérance

Matchday 2

• June 20, 3 PM – Flamengo vs Chelsea
• June 20, 7 PM – Los Angeles FC vs Espérance

Matchday 3

• June 24, 10 PM – Espérance vs Chelsea
• June 24, 10 PM – Los Angeles FC vs Flamengo

Group E

Champions League runners-up Inter Milan are in a rebuilding phase. Even so, the Italian giants are favorites to top the group, with River Plate potentially pulling off a surprise and stealing the top spot.

Urawa Reds are the third force in the group, hoping to represent Asia in the Knockout Stage. Monterrey enters as the underdog, needing a big performance to turn dreams into reality.

Internazionale

Qualified based on consistent UEFA tournament performances in recent years, Inter represents Italy but arrives with some uncertainty. Despite winning Serie A, they suffered a crushing 5–0 defeat in the Champions League final and lost coach Simone Inzaghi to Al-Hilal.

Manager

Cristian Chivu

Key players

Team captain and top scorer Lautaro Martínez leads the attack with skill and leadership. Midfielder Nicolò Barella is the tireless engine in midfield, balancing attack and defense. Speedy forward Marcus Thuram is a key component alongside Lautaro.

Expectations

Inter is favored to win Group E with odds of 1.45. Though in transition, they are still among the title contenders with 11.0 odds to win it all.

Monterrey

Monterrey earned its spot by winning the 2021 CONCACAF Champions League. A traditional Mexican powerhouse, they are viewed as the weakest in the group.

Manager

Domènec Torrent

Key players

Veteran Spanish center-back Sergio Ramos brings leadership and experience. Midfield maestro Sergio Canales controls tempo and creativity, while Lucas Ocampos adds speed and penetration on the flanks.

Expectations

Monterrey is a clear underdog with 22.0 odds to win the group and 12.0 to advance. They'll need a strong collective effort to make it out of Group E.

River Plate

Despite not winning the Libertadores recently, River Plate has shown impressive consistency. Their Club World Cup berth comes via CONMEBOL’s four-year ranking — a testament to their continued presence among South America’s elite.

Manager

Marcelo Gallardo

Key players

At just 17, Franco Mastantuono is considered one of the club’s most promising talents. Left-footed and creative, he sees the game with rare clarity. Colombian midfielder Kevin Castaño quickly became a key starter with his defensive awareness and distribution. Up front, experienced striker Miguel Borja brings goals and physical presence.

Expectations

River doesn't have the same financial power as the Europeans, but their squad and Gallardo’s experience give them belief. With 3.3 odds to top the group, they’re right behind Inter.

Urawa Reds

Winners of the 2022 AFC Champions League, Urawa Reds are one of four AFC representatives in this Club World Cup. Known for tactical discipline and passionate fans, they’ll face one of the toughest groups in the tournament.

Manager

Maciej Skorża

Key players

Young Japanese forward Motoki Nagakura is fast, smart, and an attacking outlet. Brazilian playmaker Matheus Sávio adds dribbling and set-piece quality, while Swedish defensive midfielder Samuel Gustafson anchors the midfield.

Expectations

Urawa Reds are another Group E underdog, with 18.0 odds to win the group and 8.5 to qualify. Their tactical organization and transitions will need to be perfect to pull off an upset.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1

• June 17, 4 PM – River Plate vs Urawa Red Diamonds
• June 17, 10 PM – Monterrey vs Internazionale

Matchday 2

• June 21, 4 PM – Internazionale vs Urawa Red Diamonds
• June 21, 10 PM – River Plate vs Monterrey

Matchday 3

• June 25, 10 PM – Urawa Red Diamonds vs Monterrey
• June 25, 10 PM – Internazionale vs River Plate

Group F

The Yellow Wall is heading to the United States to support Borussia Dortmund with its unique energy, making the German club the favorite to top the group. 2023 Copa Libertadores champion Fluminense is their main rival and boasts experienced names such as veteran center-back Thiago Silva.

A traditional powerhouse in South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns comes in as the underdog in Group F — even if most deem its qualification unlikely. Ulsan HD, meanwhile, is viewed as a team with more potential to upset the group favorites.

Borussia Dortmund

After a poor start to the season, Borussia Dortmund found its rhythm with the arrival of head coach Niko Kovač. A finalist in the 2023/24 UEFA Champions League, the Black and Yellows qualified through UEFA rankings.

Manager

Niko Kovač

Key Players

Powerful striker Serhou Guirassy is the main offensive threat in crucial moments. Speedy youngster Karim Adeyemi has been establishing himself as one of Europe’s most dangerous forwards. Julian Brandt is the team’s playmaker, whose vision is key to linking midfield and attack.

Expectations

Dortmund is the group favorite, with odds of 1.50 to top the table. However, their overall title odds are less encouraging at 22.0. The Yellow Wall will need to push the team hard in potential knockout clashes against more traditional powerhouses.

Fluminense

Fluminense lifted its first-ever Libertadores trophy in 2023 but has since faced ups and downs. Now under coach Renato Portaluppi — a historic figure at the club — the Tricolor is aiming to rediscover its form and chase a never-before-won global title.

Manager

Renato Gaúcho

Key Players

Veteran goalkeeper Fábio is a key figure for the team's defensive stability. Experienced center-back Thiago Silva brings leadership and composure to the back line. Midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso provides vision and creativity, while striker Germán Cano is Fluminense's go-to goal scorer in tight matches.

Expectations

Seen as the second-strongest team in the group, Fluminense has the tools to pull off surprises. With odds of 3.2 to finish first, they must overcome Dortmund’s favoritism and prove they can perform at the highest level.

Mamelodi Sundowns

The Sundowns qualified for the Club World Cup based on their CAF ranking. Though dominant in South African football in recent years, they’re now up against a much higher level of competition. The mission: compete against teams with much larger budgets and deeper squads.

Manager

Miguel Cardoso

Key Players

Brazilian Lucas Ribeiro Costa drives the attack with strong presence and mid-range finishing. Local icon Themba Zwane is a creative veteran with a sharp game sense. Chilean Marcelo Allende contributes both as a playmaker and in defensive support.

Expectations

With odds of 22.0 to finish top of the group, the Sundowns are the clear underdogs. Reaching the quarterfinals would be a true Cinderella story, reflected in the long odds of 70.0.

Ulsan HD

Representing South Korea thanks to their performance in the AFC rankings over the past four years, Ulsan HD knows it’s not the favorite. The team will rely on speed and cohesion to compete.

Manager

Kim Pan-gon

Key Players

Brazilian forward Erick Farias is fast and daring, sparking attacks in quick transitions. Midfield general Lee Chung-yong, a former Premier League player, controls the tempo. Croatian Darijan Bojanić brings vision and acts as a crucial link between defense and attack.

Expectations

Though seen as the third-best team in the group, Ulsan could push for qualification by balancing defense and capitalizing on counterattacks. They are given 9.5 odds to reach the quarterfinals and 30.0 to make it to the semifinals.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1

• June 17, 1 PM: Fluminense vs Borussia Dortmund
• June 17, 7 PM: Ulsan HD vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Matchday 2

• June 21, 1 PM: Borussia Dortmund vs Mamelodi Sundowns
• June 21, 7 PM: Fluminense vs Ulsan HD

Matchday 3

• June 25, 4 PM: Borussia Dortmund vs Ulsan HD
• June 25, 4 PM: Fluminense vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Group G

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has become a trophy-winning machine and enters the tournament among the title favorites. Despite a squad overhaul and Rodri only just returning from injury, City still leads the pack. Their top rival for the group’s top spot is Juventus, trying to bounce back after losing its grip on Italian dominance.

Al-Ain is the group’s third force and hopes to surprise once again on the global stage after finishing as runners-up in a previous edition. Representing Africa, Wydad Casablanca is the main underdog and will need to rely on intensity and tradition to advance.

Al-Ain

2023/24 AFC Champions League winners, Al-Ain aims to surprise again on the world stage, having already finished as runners-up once. Known for their offensive style and fast-paced transitions, the UAE club's biggest challenge lies in its lack of squad depth.

Manager

Vladimir Ivić

Key Players

Forward Soufiane Rahim is quick and skillful, spearheading attacks and flashy plays. Matías Segovia orchestrates the midfield, bringing creativity but struggling under pressure. Alejandro Romero adds experience and balance, though he's limited defensively.

Expectations

If Al-Ain can play to its strengths and hide its weaknesses, it could trouble the group’s bigger names. Their odds to reach the knockout stage stand at 14.0, with a 31.0 chance of making the semifinals.

Juventus

Juventus returns to the international spotlight through its UEFA ranking. Currently in a rebuilding phase, the Bianconeri rely on coach Igor Tudor to bring back the strength that once made them Italy’s dominant force.

Manager

Igor Tudor

Key Players

Forward Kenan Yıldız is Juventus' rising star — smart, bold, and unpredictable. Dušan Vlahović is a classic striker, powerful and clinical in the box. Randal Kolo Muani is a dynamic and explosive attacker, capable of creating space and dribbling past defenders.

Expectations

As the group’s second favorite, Juventus has 3.2 odds to top the group. Their 14.0 odds of reaching the final reflect the club’s ongoing rebuild and their efforts to reclaim elite status.

Manchester City

Champions of the 2022/23 Champions League, Manchester City arrives at the Club World Cup in an unusual position under Guardiola: trophyless in the current season. The squad is being revamped, and key departures like Kevin De Bruyne could affect performance.

Manager

Pep Guardiola

Key Players

Erling Haaland remains the goal-scoring machine — physically imposing, composed, and lethal. Newcomer Omar Marmoush brings blistering pace and smart movement. Rodri, named best in the world last season, is City’s most reliable anchor, dictating tempo and leading from midfield.

Expectations

Despite a disappointing season, City is unlikely to falter in Group G. They are favorites to top the group with odds of 1.45. Their title odds of 5.5 place them among the tournament’s top contenders.

Wydad Casablanca

African champions in 2021/22, Wydad Casablanca enters with a mission to uphold its tradition. Under coach Mohamed Amine Benhachem, the Moroccan side will rely on discipline, grit, and flair to upset the odds.

Manager

Mohamed Amine Benhachem

Key Players

Playmaker Thembinkosi Lorch dictates tempo and drives the transition from midfield. Physically strong striker Stephane Aziz Ki is the team’s focal point in the final third. Young South African talent Cassius Mailula brings pace and incisiveness, aiming to break through defenses.

Expectations

Wydad Casablanca is the biggest underdog in Group G, with odds of 30.0 to finish first. Their odds of reaching the final four are a steep 85.0, highlighting their status as longshots.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1

• June 18, 1 PM: Manchester City vs Wydad Casablanca
• June 18, 10 PM: Juventus vs Al-Ain

Matchday 2

• June 22, 1 PM: Wydad Casablanca vs Juventus
• June 22, 10 PM: Al-Ain vs Manchester City

Matchday 3

• June 26, 4 PM: Wydad Casablanca vs Al-Ain
• June 26, 4 PM: Manchester City vs Juventus

Group H

Group H features four teams with different styles and motivations to shine in the tournament. The most successful club in Club World Cup history, Real Madrid is the clear favorite to top the group and faces familiar foes from recent editions.

Strong in Asian football, Al-Hilal will seek revenge for their 2023 loss and look to fend off Red Bull Salzburg, who aim to claim the second spot. Meanwhile, Pachuca is the ultimate underdog, with qualification seen as a tough task — revenge or not for the recent 3-0 loss to the Spanish giants.

Al-Hilal

Among the clubs that have heavily invested to attract global stars, Al-Hilal qualified as the 2021 AFC Champions League winner. With Simone Inzaghi — the mastermind behind Inter Milan’s rebuild — now in charge, the Saudi team is out to surprise.

Manager

Simone Inzaghi

Key Players

Aggressive and imposing striker Aleksandar Mitrović is known for his strength and clinical finishing inside the box. Versatile and experienced, defender João Cancelo adds both solidity and technical quality to the backline. Creative and decisive, midfielder Salem Al-Dawsari has the flair to create big moments when it matters most.

Expectations

With strong investment and a high-profile coach leading an ambitious project, Al-Hilal has odds of 5.0 to win Group H and solid chances of making it to the knockout rounds. Their 14.0 odds to reach the semifinals suggest Asia may have a serious contender.

Pachuca

Current CONCACAF champions, Pachuca face a rematch with Real Madrid, who previously denied them an Intercontinental Cup title. Led by Jaime Lozano, Los Tuzos will need grit, solid defending, and fast counterattacks if they hope to pull off an upset.

Manager

Jaime Lozano

Key Players

Explosive and agile, forward John Kennedy excels at breaking defensive lines with quick dribbles and sharp runs. Veteran striker Salomón Rondón brings strength and dominance in the box. Creative and technically gifted, Oussama Idrissi is the team’s wildcard, capable of changing the game with vision and unexpected plays.

Expectations

As runners-up in the last Club World Cup, Pachuca is unlikely to reach the podium again. Their odds of 13.0 to reach the knockouts highlight their long-shot status. Time will tell if the same fire that stunned Botafogo in the Intercontinental Cup can fuel another strong campaign.

Red Bull Salzburg

While lacking their sister clubs' international pedigree, Red Bull Salzburg is no easy opponent. Under coach Thomas Letsch, the Austrians rely on high pressing and intensity to fight for a knockout stage spot.

Manager

Thomas Letsch

Key Players

Rising star Karim Konaté is a fast and clinical finisher who constantly threatens defenses. Midfielder Oscar Gluh is the team’s engine, combining creativity and work rate to dictate the pace and deliver pinpoint passes. Bobby Clark is another creative presence in midfield, known for unlocking tight defenses with clever passing and strategic vision.

Expectations

With Real Madrid heavily favored, Salzburg battles Al-Hilal for the second qualification spot. Their 6.7 odds to top the group place them just behind the Saudis, though they could take advantage of Inzaghi’s recent arrival and win the head-to-head matchup.

Real Madrid

The most feared club on the planet, Real Madrid arrives as UEFA Champions League winner in both 2021/22 and 2023/24. Already the most decorated FIFA Club World Cup team, Los Blancos are now led by Xabi Alonso, who replaces Carlo Ancelotti with one goal: win more trophies.

Manager

Xabi Alonso

Key Players

One of the biggest global stars, Kylian Mbappé brings elite speed, agility, and goal-scoring instincts. Vinícius Júnior dazzles with flair, acceleration, and game-breaking dribbles. Jude Bellingham, mature beyond his years, commands the midfield and dictates tempo with composure and leadership.

Expectations

There’s little debate when it comes to Real Madrid: with odds of 2.8 to reach the final and 4.5 to win the Super Club World Cup, Los Merengues remain a dominant force known for cinematic comebacks and title-winning DNA.

Match Schedule

Matchday 1

• June 18, 4 PM: Real Madrid vs Al-Hilal
• June 18, 7 PM: Pachuca vs Red Bull Salzburg

Matchday 2

• June 22, 4 PM: Real Madrid vs Pachuca
• June 22, 7 PM: RB Salzburg vs Al-Hilal

Matchday 3

• June 26, 10 PM: RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid
• June 26, 10 PM: Pachuca vs Al-Hilal

FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Knockout Stage Bracket

After the Group Stage, only 16 teams will advance to the knockout phase. The Round of 16 of the FIFA Super Club World Cup will be held from June 28 to July 1 with the following matchups:

1. June 28: 1st in Group A vs 2nd in Group B
2. June 28: 1st in Group C vs 2nd in Group D
3. June 29: 1st in Group E vs 2nd in Group F
4. June 29: 1st in Group G vs 2nd in Group H
5. June 30: 1st in Group B vs 2nd in Group A
6. June 30: 1st in Group C vs 2nd in Group E
7. June 31: 1st in Group E vs 2nd in Group F
8. June 32: 1st in Group H vs 2nd in Group G

The Quarterfinals will be played on July 4 and 5:

1. July 4: Winner Match 1 vs Winner Match 2
2. July 4: Winner Match 3 vs Winner Match 4
3. July 5: Winner Match 5 vs Winner Match 6
4. July 5: Winner Match 7 vs Winner Match 8

The Semifinals are scheduled for July 8 and 9:

1. July 9: Winner Semi 1 vs Winner Semi 2
2. July 9: Winner Semi 3 vs Winner Semi 4

The grand final will take place on July 13 — the only match where teams from the same group may face each other again.

Where to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup 2025

The 2025 Club World Cup will be broadcast on TV Globo, showcasing the biggest matches live. On cable, Sportv will air every match for subscribers. Additionally, CazéTV will stream at least 39 of the 63 games live — including all matches involving Brazilian clubs, plus both semifinals and the final.

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