FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Top 10 matches to watchout for in group stage

The biggest clubs around the world are set to compete in the tournament

The 2025 edition of the Club World Cup marks a turning point. For the first time, 32 teams from all continents will compete in a group stage that promises excitement from the very first minute. Gone are the short tournaments with few surprises.

Now, continental champions and runners-up will compete side by side in US venues steeped in history and passionate fan support. FIFA opted for a long format, similar to that of the World Cup for national teams and the schedule has already delivered a series of classic-style clashes.

There will be direct confrontations between European and South American giants, as well as encounters between old acquaintances. Asian, African, and CONCACAF football will also have their say, with clubs that did not get here by chance.

Excitement in the United States continues to grow. Some stadiums will host matches that could easily be semi-finals. But here, they are only the beginning. Mistakes will be costly, and details will determine who advances.

These ten matches have all the ingredients to impress in the FIFA Club World Cup group stage:

10. Al Ahly vs Inter Miami – Group A

15 June, Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

The match that opens the tournament. And it does so with a twist. Lionel Messi faces the biggest club in Africa. Al Ahly is no novice in these competitions. It has hierarchy, titles, and experience.

But playing against Inter Miami in their own city, with Messi leading the way, changes everything. It will be a party for the locals but also a serious test. Al Ahly is not going there for a walk in the park. They want to start with points, and they have what it takes.

9. Fluminense vs. Borussia Dortmund—Group F

17 June, MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)

A gem for neutrals. Fluminense, with their offensive and combinative style, faces a Dortmund team that never speculates. Two teams that prioritize open play. It could be one of the most entertaining matches of the group stage if both teams manage to maintain their approach.

Lots of quality, lots of mobility, and a constant feeling that a goal could come at any moment. This match is ideal for those looking for spectacle.

8. Boca Juniors vs. Benfica—Group C

17 June, Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

Second key clash for Boca. This time against an offensive Benfica, which arrives with Portuguese and Latin American talent. It will be a high-paced duel, as Benfica attacks decisively.

Boca defend tooth and nail and counterattacks with speed. In a group where Bayern seem unbeatable, this match could determine who finishes second. The Dolphins Stadium will witness an intense battle.

7. Palmeiras vs. FC Porto—Group A

16 June, MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford)

This match promises to be evenly balanced. Both clubs know how to compete and don’t give away space. Palmeiras dominates in Brazil with a solid and dynamic team.

Porto, for their part, combines youth with experience and are always organized. Whoever dominates the midfield will set the tone. The difference could come from a set piece or an isolated mistake. This is a match for those who enjoy tactical chess.

6. Real Madrid vs. Red Bull Salzburg—Group H

27 June, Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia)

The Austrians don’t have Madrid‘s history, but they do have an uncomfortable style. Salzburg presses, runs and punishes mistakes. And they have nothing to lose. Real Madrid are the clear favorites, but they cannot be complacent. If they underestimate their opponents, they could pay dearly.

Furthermore, Los Blancos are already coming off the back of some tough games; fatigue could take its toll. Salzburg have already eliminated big names in European tournaments, and another upset would not be a surprise.

5. Paris Saint-Germain vs. Atlético Madrid—Group B

16 June, Rose Bowl (Pasadena)

A clash of contrasts. PSG, now a treble winner last season, without Mbappé, Messi, or Neymar, will face an Atlético side that continues to believe in Simeone’s intensity and order. The French will seek to dominate possession, and the Spanish team will wait for their moment.

It will be a physical, strategic match with a lot at stake from the start of the tournament. Pasadena promises to be sold out.

4. Flamengo vs. Chelsea—Group D

20 June, Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia)

A clash between two electric styles. Flamengo relies on high pressure and speed. Chelsea, meanwhile, has a young, ambitious, and dangerous squad in transition. The Brazilian crowd will make its presence felt, but the London team will not be intimidated.

The first few minutes will be key, and if Flamengo imposes their style, the match will be decided. If Chelsea resist, their pace and quality could make the difference in the second half.

3. Boca Juniors vs. Bayern Munich—Group C

21 June, TQL Stadium (Cincinnati)

This match screams history from every angle. Boca wants to settle old scores against a European giant. The memory of the 2001 Intercontinental Cup still weighs heavily on La Bombonera.

Bayern arrive with their well-oiled German machine, with Kane, Musiala, and company ready to impose their strength. But Boca has grit, and if they manage to cause trouble in midfield, they can make the German champions suffer. A South American atmosphere is guaranteed in Cincinnati.

2. Real Madrid vs Al Hilal—Group H

19 June, Hard Rock Stadium (Miami)

A clash between history and recent ambition. Madrid, always competitive, face an Al Hilal side that continue to grow in Asia. The Saudi club will want to make a statement. They have tried before and now have more big names, more resources, and more confidence.

But the Spanish giants are rarely caught off guard in international tournaments. It will be a test for both sides, and the heat of Miami will add an extra challenge.

1. Manchester City vs Juventus—Group G

27 June, Inter&Co Stadium (Orlando)

One of the most eagerly awaited clashes. The English giants take on an old fox of Italian football. Manchester City arrive hungry, with Pep Guardiola determined to reaffirm his legacy.

Opposite them are a Juventus side in the midst of rebuilding, but with Vlahović ready to cause trouble. It will be a battle of styles: control versus counterattack and precision versus experience. Orlando is preparing for an intense night with tickets sold out in record time.

(Note: all dates as per IST)*

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