Clash of Champions: 2025 Club World Cup Round of 16 Preview

The Road to Glory Begins! 🌍⚽ — Catch all the action as global giants clash in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 across iconic U.S. stadiums from June 28 to July 1.  

The inaugural edition of the expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup has reached a fever pitch, with the conclusion of a thrilling group stage setting the scene for a star-studded Round of 16. The world's premier club competition, hosted in the United States, now shifts to a knockout format, where every match is a do-or-die affair. From European giants to South American powerhouses and burgeoning forces from across the globe, the remaining 16 teams are set to battle for a coveted spot in the quarterfinals.

The group stage, which ran from June 14th to June 26th, was not without its share of drama and surprises, ultimately whittling down the field and confirming the tantalizing matchups for the first knockout round, which kicks off on Saturday, June 28th.

Here's a look at the mouth-watering fixtures that await football fans:

Saturday, June 28, 2025

• Palmeiras vs. Botafogo

  • Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia

  • An all-Brazilian affair gets the knockout stage underway. Palmeiras, a dominant force in South American football, will lock horns with a determined Botafogo side in what promises to be a passionate and technically gifted contest.

• Benfica vs. Chelsea

  • Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte

  • Two of Europe's most recognizable clubs will clash in a battle of contrasting styles. Benfica's attacking flair will be put to the test against a tactically astute Chelsea, with both teams boasting a rich history in continental competitions.

Sunday, June 29, 2025

• Paris Saint-Germain vs. Inter Miami

  • Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

  • In arguably the most anticipated match of the round, Lionel Messi will face his former club, Paris Saint-Germain. The Argentine maestro will lead his Inter Miami side against the French champions, creating a narrative-rich encounter that will capture the world's attention.

• Flamengo vs. Bayern Munich

  • Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens

  • A heavyweight clash between the Brazilian giants Flamengo and the German powerhouse Bayern Munich is set to light up Miami. Both teams are known for their attacking prowess and will be eager to make a statement of intent.

Monday, June 30, 2025

• Inter Milan vs. Fluminense

  • Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte

  • The Italian giants Inter Milan will face the reigning Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense. This match will pit the tactical discipline of European football against the creative and free-flowing style of the Brazilians.

• Manchester City vs. Al Hilal

  • Camping World Stadium, Orlando

  • The reigning English and European champions, Manchester City, will take on the pride of Saudi Arabia, Al Hilal. Pep Guardiola's formidable squad will be the favorites, but Al Hilal's quality and experience on the Asian stage cannot be underestimated.

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

• Real Madrid vs. Juventus

  • Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens

  • A classic European rivalry is renewed on American soil as Real Madrid and Juventus go head-to-head. Both clubs possess a decorated history and a roster of world-class talent, promising a strategic and hard-fought battle.

• Borussia Dortmund vs. Monterrey

  • Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

  • The vibrant and energetic side of Borussia Dortmund will test their mettle against the seasoned campaigners from Mexico, Monterrey. This fixture will showcase a clash of footballing cultures, with both teams eager to advance to the quarterfinals.

With the stage now set, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is ready to deliver a knockout phase filled with drama, passion, and world-class football. As champions from different corners of the globe collide, the quest to be crowned the ultimate club world champion is well and truly on.

  

2025 FIFA Club World Cup: Round of 16 Fixtures

Format: The expanded 32-team tournament features an exciting Round of 16 with top clubs from around the world, hosted across iconic US stadiums from June 28 to July 1, 2025.

📅 Match Schedule

Date	Time (ET)	Match	Venue
Sat, Jun 28	12:00 PM	Palmeiras vs Botafogo	Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA
Sat, Jun 28	4:00 PM	Benfica vs Chelsea	Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
Sun, Jun 29	12:00 PM	Paris Saint-Germain vs Inter Miami	Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
Sun, Jun 29	4:00 PM	Flamengo vs Bayern Munich	Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
Mon, Jun 30	3:00 PM	Inter Milan vs Fluminense	Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC
Mon, Jun 30	9:00 PM	Manchester City vs Al Hilal	Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
Tue, Jul 1	3:00 PM	Real Madrid vs Juventus	Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
Tue, Jul 1	9:00 PM	Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey	Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA

🌍 Broadcasting & Streaming

• India: Eurosport India, FanCode, and Dream Sports platforms.
• USA: DAZN, TNT, TBS, truTV (select matches).
• UK: DAZN & Channel 5 (23 matches free-to-air).
• Global: DAZN app or website (free registration required).

🔥 Key Highlights

• Messi vs PSG: A historic clash as Inter Miami faces Paris Saint-Germain on June 29.
• European Heavyweights: Real Madrid vs Juventus, Chelsea vs Benfica, and Bayern vs Flamengo will be must-watch ties.
• Final: Set for July 13, 2025, at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey.

⏭️ What’s Next?

Winners from the Round of 16 will advance to the Quarterfinals (July 4–5), followed by Semifinals (July 8–9), and the Grand Final on Sunday, July 13.

🇫🇷 PSG vs 🇺🇸 Inter Miami – 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 Preview

One of the most anticipated clashes of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup sees Paris Saint-Germain take on Inter Miami in the Round of 16. The match is especially poignant as it marks Lionel Messi’s return to face his former club, PSG, for the first time since his move to the MLS.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is heating up, and one of the most anticipated Round of 16 clashes will see French giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) take on American hopefuls Inter Miami.

Match Details:

Match-up: PSG (France) vs. Inter Miami CF (USA)

Stage: Round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Date: Sunday, June 29, 2025

Kick-off (IST): 9:30 PM IST (12:00 PM ET / 9:00 AM PT)

Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia, United States

Road to the Round of 16:

PSG topped their group (Group B), while Inter Miami finished second in their group (Group A). This sets up a fascinating encounter between two teams with star power, particularly with Lionel Messi leading Inter Miami against his former club.

Team Previews:

Paris Saint-Germain (PSG): As one of Europe's elite clubs, PSG boasts a formidable squad with top international talent. They are expected to be a strong contender for the Club World Cup title. Their group stage performances have shown their attacking prowess and speed, making them a difficult opponent to contain.

Inter Miami CF: Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, Inter Miami has defied expectations to reach the knockout stages. Their success has been attributed to Messi's vision and leadership, coupled with their smart, attacking football. While considered the underdog against PSG, their ability to surprise has been a highlight of the tournament.

What to Expect:

This match is highly anticipated, largely due to the narrative of Lionel Messi facing his old club. PSG will likely aim to dominate possession and exploit their attacking talents, while Inter Miami will look to leverage Messi's creativity and capitalize on counter-attacking opportunities. The game promises to be a thrilling tactical battle with high stakes, as the winner will advance to the quarterfinals on July 5 at the same venue, where they'll face either Flamengo or Bayern Munich.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is being hosted across various cities in the United States, and this Round of 16 match in Atlanta is undoubtedly one of the marquee fixtures of the tournament.

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PSG vs Inter Miami - Club World Cup 2025 Match Preview

📅 Match Details (Indian Time)

Date & Time (IST): Sunday, 29 June 2025 at 01:30 am IST

Venue: Mercedes‑Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA (Capacity ~71,000)

🏟️ Stadium Overview

The Mercedes‑Benz Stadium in Atlanta is a state-of-the-art facility hosting both NFL and MLS matches. Known for its retractable roof and massive capacity, it is one of the main venues for FIFA World Cup 2026.

📊 Head-to-Head & Tournament Path

Team	Path to Knockouts
Inter Miami CF	Runner-up in Group A (Drew vs Al Ahly, Beat Porto, Drew vs Palmeiras)
Paris Saint-Germain	Winners of Group B (Beat Atlético, Lost to Botafogo, Beat Seattle)

👥 Projected Line-ups

PSG

• GK: Donnarumma
• Defenders: Hakimi, Marquinhos, Pacho, Mendes
• Midfielders: Neves, Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz
• Forwards: Désiré Doué, Mayulu, Kvaratskhelia

Inter Miami

• GK: Óscar Ustari
• Defenders: Weigandt, Avilés, Falcón, Allen
• Midfielders: Allende, Redondo, Busquets, Segovia
• Forwards: Messi (c), Luis Suárez

💹 Form & Betting Odds

PSG Form: Strong, only one loss to Botafogo.

Inter Miami Form: Confident group stage performances, including win over Porto.

Odds:

• PSG win: ~1/6
• Draw: ~6/1
• Inter Miami win: ~11/1

🎯 Key Storylines

• Messi vs PSG: Iconic reunion with former club and manager Luis Enrique.
• MLS vs European Elite: Inter Miami’s biggest test yet.
• Veterans vs Youth: Miami’s experience takes on PSG’s pace and flair.
• Tactical Battle: Mascherano’s setup vs Enrique’s structured style.

📝 Summary

A high-profile, emotional knockout clash in the Club World Cup. PSG remain favorites, but with Messi leading Inter Miami, expect a thrilling battle. Predicted score: PSG 3–1, but never count Messi out for magic.

Unexpected draw for Real Madrid against Al-Hilal

 

A new chapter for Real Madrid under Xabi Alonso began with an unexpected jolt, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by a determined Al-Hilal side in their FIFA Club World Cup opener. The highly anticipated debut of the former midfielder as Los Blancos' head coach saw moments of promise, particularly a well-taken goal by young Gonzalo Garcia, who stepped up in the absence of the ill Kylian Mbappé. However, Al-Hilal, under their own new manager Simone Inzaghi, quickly responded with a Ruben Neves penalty, showcasing their intent to make a statement in this expanded tournament.

The match, played in the demanding heat and humidity of Miami, highlighted both the potential and the immediate challenges for Alonso's Real Madrid. While they exhibited flashes of their trademark attacking flair, particularly in the second half with the introduction of Arda Guler, the team struggled for consistent rhythm and defensive cohesion. Debutants like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen will need time to integrate fully, and the late penalty miss by Federico Valverde ultimately denied Real Madrid a winning start, leaving a feeling of disappointment among the heavily Real Madrid-supporting crowd.

For Al-Hilal, this draw is a significant achievement, marking the first time in over two decades that a non-European club has avoided defeat against Real Madrid. Their resilient defensive display, coupled with timely offensive thrusts and a heroic penalty save by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou, underlined their ambition. This result sets up an intriguing group stage in the Club World Cup, reminding everyone that even the most dominant European giants will face stern tests in this new era of global club football.

Match Result:

Real Madrid 1 - 1 Al-Hilal

Key Details:

Competition: FIFA Club World Cup, Group Stage

Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Kick-off Time (IST): 12:30 AM IST (on June 19, making it a late night/early morning for those in India)

Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, United States

Goals:

Real Madrid: Gonzalo Garcia (34')

Al-Hilal: Ruben Neves (41' - penalty)

Match Summary:

The match ended in a surprising 1-1 draw, with Al-Hilal putting in a spirited performance against the European giants. This was a significant match as it marked Xabi Alonso's debut as Real Madrid's head coach.

Real Madrid initially took the lead through Gonzalo Garcia in the 34th minute. However, Al-Hilal quickly equalized with a penalty converted by Ruben Neves just before halftime. The Saudi side, managed by Simone Inzaghi, showed strong defensive grit and created their own chances throughout the game.

Real Madrid had a golden opportunity to snatch a late victory when they were awarded a penalty in the closing minutes, but Federico Valverde's spot-kick was saved by Al-Hilal's goalkeeper, Yassine Bounou, securing a well-deserved point for Al-Hilal.

Team Performances:

Real Madrid: The match proved to be a challenging start for Xabi Alonso's tenure. Despite flashes of quality, Real Madrid struggled to find their rhythm and create consistent meaningful chances, especially in the first half. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen also made their debuts for Real Madrid in this match.

Al-Hilal: Al-Hilal showcased a strong and organized performance, proving to be a formidable opponent. They defended resolutely and were brave in their attacking endeavors, even squandering a few opportunities that could have secured them a win.

This draw serves as an early statement from Al-Hilal in the FIFA Club World Cup and highlights areas where Real Madrid will look to improve in their upcoming matches in the tournament.

Messi vs Ronaldo: A comprehensive career stats comparison. See how the two titans of football stack up

 Numbers don't lie! 📊 Messi vs. Ronaldo: A comprehensive career stats comparison.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of football's most iconic figures, have defined an era with their unparalleled talent and fierce rivalry. Messi, often lauded for his sublime dribbling, exquisite playmaking, and prolific goalscoring with his dominant left foot, spent the majority of his career at Barcelona, achieving numerous La Liga and Champions League titles before moving to PSG and now Inter Miami. Ronaldo, known for his incredible athleticism, powerful shooting, aerial prowess, and relentless goalscoring instinct, made his mark at Manchester United and Real Madrid, becoming the Champions League's all-time top scorer, before stints at Juventus and Al-Nassr. While Ronaldo boasts more total career goals, Messi has a slightly better goal-per-game ratio and significantly more assists, showcasing his role as both a finisher and a creator. Their contrasting styles and personalities fueled one of sport's greatest individual rivalries, consistently pushing each other to break records and redefine what's possible on the pitch.

 

Messi vs Ronaldo: Career Stats Comparison (Till Mid-2025)

Statistic	--LM10-	--CR7-
Total Career Goals (Club & Country)	865	938
Total Career Assists (Club & Country)	384	257
Total Appearances	1105	1281
Goal Per Game Ratio	0.78	0.73
Minutes Per Goal	104.8	111.6
Hat-tricks	59	66
Header Goals	26	141
Left Foot Goals	~724	179
Right Foot Goals	~103	538
Free-kick Goals	67	64
Successful Dribbles	~3341	1704
Key Passes	~1562	987
FIFA World Cups Won	1	0
Ballon d'Or Awards	8	5
Champions League Titles	4	5
Major Trophies Won (Team)	45	34

*Stats are approximate and subject to change as of mid-June 2025. Highly granular data (e.g., specific foot goals, key passes) is not consistently available across entire careers for accurate public comparison.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Opener: Inter Miami and Al Ahly Play Out Gripping Goalless Draw

 

The highly anticipated 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicked off today, June 15, 2025, with an engaging encounter between MLS side Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al Ahly. The opening match of Group A, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, concluded in a 0-0 draw, a result that saw both teams earn a point in their quest for progression in the expanded 32-team tournament.

Despite the lack of goals, the match was far from dull, marked by periods of dominance from both sides and stellar goalkeeping performances that kept the scoreline level.

Al Ahly, cheered on by a significant contingent of their passionate supporters, started the game stronger, controlling possession and creating several dangerous opportunities in the first half. Their best chance came from a penalty kick, but Mahmoud Trezeguet's effort was expertly saved by Inter Miami's veteran goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari, who proved to be a pivotal figure in keeping his team in the contest during the opening 45 minutes with a string of impressive saves.

Inter Miami, featuring star forward Lionel Messi, showed a significant improvement in the second half, increasing their attacking pressure and creating chances, particularly from set-piece situations. Messi himself came agonizingly close to a late winner in stoppage time. His curling shot from outside the box appeared destined for the net, only to be tipped onto the crossbar by a heroic fingertip save from Al Ahly's goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy. El Shenawy continued to be a wall for the Egyptian side, making another crucial save from a Maxi Falcon header in the dying seconds to preserve the draw.

Both coaches expressed mixed feelings after the match. Al Ahly's new Spanish coach, Jose Riveiro, acknowledged his team's missed opportunities in the first half but praised the incredible support from their fans. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano was upbeat about his team's second-half resurgence, stating they "dominated the second half and had the chances to win the game," and credited Ustari for keeping them "alive" in the first half.

This 0-0 stalemate leaves Group A wide open, with Palmeiras and Porto yet to play their opening matches. Inter Miami will next face Porto, while Al Ahly will take on Palmeiras in their upcoming group fixtures, both looking to secure their first win in the tournament.

Al Ahly vs Inter Miami - FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Live detail

Al Ahly vs Inter Miami - FIFA Club World Cup 2025

Match Details

Detail	Information
Teams	Al Ahly (Egypt) vs Inter Miami (USA)
Competition	FIFA Club World Cup 2025 - Group A
Venue	Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida, USA
Date and Time	Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 8:00 PM ET (Eastern Time)
Local Time (IST)	Sunday, June 15, 2025 | 5:30 AM IST
Stage	Group Stage - Matchday 1 (Opening Match)

Head to Head (H2H)

Note: As of June 14, 2025, there are no recorded previous official matches between Al Ahly and Inter Miami. This will be their first official encounter.

BROADCAST DETAILS:

                         Click  👇  

Stat	Al Ahly	Inter Miami
Matches Played	0	0
Wins	0	0
Draws	0	0
Goals Scored	0	0
Goals Conceded	0	0

Live Stream Details

Note: Broadcast availability may vary by region. Always check local listings.

Region	Platform(s)	Notes
Worldwide (Free-to-stream)	DAZN (DAZN.com or DAZN App)	FIFA has announced DAZN as the exclusive global free-to-view broadcaster. You may need to register a free account.
United States	DAZN, TNT, TBS, TruTV	Also available via live streaming services carrying these channels (e.g., YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV, fuboTV, Max).
MENA Region (Middle East and North Africa)	beIN SPORTS (Likely)	Historically a major broadcaster for FIFA tournaments in the region. Confirm with local beIN SPORTS listings.
United Kingdom	DAZN, Channel 5 (select matches)	Channel 5 will show 23 matches, but DAZN will carry all 63 games.
India	DAZN	As DAZN is the global free-to-view platform, it is expected to be available for Indian viewers. Check DAZN India for confirmation.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Your Guide to Telecast Details

 The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is set to usher in a new era of global club football, featuring an expanded format with 32 teams competing in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025. Football enthusiasts worldwide are eager to catch every moment of this landmark tournament. Here's a comprehensive guide to its telecast details.

Global Broadcast Partner: DAZN

The primary global broadcaster for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is DAZN. In a significant agreement with FIFA, DAZN has secured the exclusive global broadcast rights, committing to live-stream all 63 matches. Notably, DAZN has stated that it will make the matches free to view on its platform worldwide in regions where it operates, with the possibility of sublicensing to local free-to-air linear broadcast networks. This move aims to make the tournament the most widely accessible club football event ever.

Regional Broadcasts and Sub-licensing

While DAZN is the central hub, it has also sublicensed coverage to various local broadcasters to ensure widespread reach. Here's a look at some key regions:

United States: Viewers in the U.S. can catch the action on TNT Sports, which has picked up rights to broadcast 24 games. Additionally, TelevisaUnivision will provide Spanish-language coverage for 18 matches. DAZN also offers various subscription options in the U.S. for comprehensive coverage.

United Kingdom: In the UK, Channel 5 will air 23 matches on free-to-air television, offering a significant opportunity for wider viewership.

India: viewers can  access the matches via DAZN and FIFA+, FIFA's official digital platform.

China: Streaming service Migu has acquired exclusive broadcast rights for both the 2025 and 2029 editions.

Other Regions: DAZN has sublicensed rights to various broadcasters across the globe. For example: 

Australia: Fox Sports/Kayo Sports will broadcast all matches.

Brazil: CazéTV/Grupo Globo will show all matches.

France: TF1 will broadcast Paris Saint-Germain's debut match and the final.

Germany: ProSiebenSat.1 will air matches featuring German teams only.

Italy: Mediaset will show one match per day.

Mexico: TelevisaUnivision will provide coverage.

South America (excluding Bolivia and Brazil): D-Sports/Disney+ will carry all matches or specific team matches.

Many other countries, including Argentina, Colombia, Nigeria, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, Spain, Turkey, and Ukraine, have dedicated broadcasters.

Beyond Terrestrial and Streaming: Inflight and Cruise Coverage

In an interesting development, IMG has secured rights to broadcast the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 to the inflight and cruise markets through a sublicensing deal with DAZN. This means passengers on airlines and cruise ships partnered with Sport 24 (IMG's dedicated sports channel for these markets) will be able to watch live coverage of the tournament.

Tournament Format and Key Dates

The revamped FIFA Club World Cup will feature 32 teams divided into eight groups of four, playing in a single-game round-robin format. The top two teams from each group will advance to a direct single-match knockout stage, starting from the Round of 16 all the way to the final. There will be no third-place play-off.

Opening Match: June 14, 2025 (Inter Miami vs Al Ahly)

Group Stage: June 14 – June 26, 2025

Round of 16: June 28 – July 1, 2025

Quarterfinals: July 4 – July 5, 2025

Semifinals: July 8 – July 9, 2025

Final: July 13, 2025, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

With a blend of global streaming accessibility and strategic regional broadcast partnerships, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is poised to reach a massive audience, promising an exciting month of top-tier club football action.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Match Dates and Times for Indian Viewers

 

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, the expanded 32-team tournament, will be held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025. For viewers in India, this translates to matches starting from June 15 to July 14, 2025, due to the time difference.

Key Dates (IST):

 * Group Stage: June 15 - June 27, 2025

 * Round of 16: June 29 - July 2, 2025

 * Quarterfinals: July 5 - July 6, 2025

 * Semifinals: July 9 - July 10, 2025

 * Final: July 14, 2025

Opening Match (IST):

The tournament will kick off with Al Ahly FC vs. Inter Miami CF on Saturday, June 15, 2025, at 5:30 AM IST. This opening game will be played at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida.

Select Group Stage Matches (All times are Indian Standard Time - IST):

Saturday, June 15, 2025

 * Al Ahly vs. Inter Miami: 5:30 AM IST (June 15)

Sunday, June 16, 2025

 * Bayern Munich vs. Auckland City: 9:30 PM IST (June 15)

 * Paris Saint-Germain F.C. vs. Atlético de Madrid: 9:30 PM IST (June 15)

 * Palmeiras vs. FC Porto: 3:30 AM IST (June 16)

 * Botafogo vs. Seattle Sounders FC: 4:30 AM IST (June 16)

Monday, June 17, 2025

 * Chelsea F.C. vs. LAFC: 12:30 AM IST (June 17)

 * Boca Juniors vs. Benfica: 3:30 AM IST (June 17)

 * Flamengo vs. ES Tunis: 6:30 AM IST (June 17)

Tuesday, June 18, 2025

 * Fluminense vs. Borussia Dortmund: 9:30 PM IST (June 17)

 * River Plate vs. Urawa Red Diamonds: 9:30 PM IST (June 17)

 * Ulsan HD vs. Mamelodi Sundowns: 3:30 AM IST (June 18)

 * Monterrey vs. Inter Milan: 3:30 AM IST (June 18)

Wednesday, June 19, 2025

 * Man City vs. Wydad AC: 9:30 PM IST (June 18)

 * Real Madrid vs. Al Hilal: 12:30 AM IST (June 19)

 * Pachuca vs. FC Salzburg: 3:30 AM IST (June 19)

 * Al Ain vs. Juventus: 6:30 AM IST (June 19)

Important Notes for Indian Viewers:

 * Due to the time difference, many matches will be played late at night or in the early morning hours in India.

 * The full schedule with all 63 matches and their respective IST kick-off times can be found on official FIFA channels and reliable sports news websites in India.

 * Keep an eye out for official broadcasters in India who will be showing the matches live.

Enjoy the expanded FIFA Club World Cup 2025!

India Faces Hong Kong in Crucial AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifier Today

The Indian national football team, popularly known as the Blue Tigers, is set to clash with Hong Kong today, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in a vital AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifier. The match will kick off at 5:30 PM IST at the Kai Tak Stadium in Kowloon, Hong Kong.

This fixture holds significant importance for both teams as they aim for their first victory in Group C of the qualifiers. India, currently ranked 127th in FIFA, began their campaign with a goalless draw against Bangladesh. Hong Kong, ranked 153rd, also secured a point in their opening match against Singapore. With only the group topper guaranteed a spot in the prestigious continental tournament in Saudi Arabia, three points today are crucial.

Adding an intriguing layer to the match is the presence of Ashley Westwood, the current Hong Kong coach, who is a well-known figure in Indian football. Having managed Bengaluru FC and other Indian clubs, Westwood's deep understanding of Indian players and their style of play could prove to be a strategic advantage for Hong Kong.

Head-to-Head Record:

The rivalry between India and Hong Kong dates back to 1951, with today marking their 25th encounter. Historically, India holds a slight edge:

India Wins: 9

Hong Kong Wins: 8

Draws: 7

It's worth noting that India has only secured one victory on Hong Kong soil, a 2-1 friendly win way back in 1957. The most recent meeting between the two sides was in 2022, during the AFC Asian Cup 2023 Qualifiers, where India convincingly defeated Hong Kong 4-0 in Kolkata.

AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Context:

The AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers are a crucial pathway for Asian nations to compete in the continent's premier football tournament. India is placed in Group C alongside Hong Kong, Bangladesh, and Singapore. After the first round of matches, all four teams have one point each, having drawn their opening games. This makes every subsequent match a must-win to secure the top spot and direct qualification.

The Blue Tigers, under coach Manolo Marquez, will be looking to bounce back from a recent 0-2 friendly defeat against Thailand. Marquez has emphasized the importance of today's match, stating that the team is prepared to perform. Hong Kong, on the other hand, has shown good form under Ashley Westwood, having lost only once in their last 12 matches.

Key Battles to Watch:

Sunil Chhetri (India) vs. Leon Jones (Hong Kong): India's prolific captain, Sunil Chhetri, will be a key attacking threat. He will likely face a stern test from Hong Kong's sturdy center-back, Leon Jones, who is known for his strength and positional discipline.

Apuia (India) vs. Ngan Cheuk Pan (Hong Kong): The midfield battle will be pivotal in controlling the flow of the game. India's Apuia, a dynamic midfielder, will aim to dictate play, while Hong Kong's defensive midfielder Ngan Cheuk Pan will be tasked with disrupting India's rhythm and winning back possession.

Anwar Ali (India) vs. Juninho (Hong Kong): The return of Anwar Ali to India's defense strengthens their backline. He will be challenged by Hong Kong's Brazilian-born forward Juninho, who brings mobility and creativity to their attack and can switch positions effectively.

Live Streaming and Telecast:

Football enthusiasts in India can catch the live action of the Hong Kong vs. India AFC Asian Cup 2027 qualifier on the FanCode app and website. The match will also be telecasted on Star Sports 3 in India.

Brazil vs. Paraguay: World Cup Qualifiers Showdown

 

June 11, 2025, football giants Brazil are set to clash with Paraguay in a crucial CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier. While Brazil has already secured their spot in the upcoming World Cup, Paraguay is fighting tooth and nail for every point to keep their qualification hopes alive. This match promises to be an exciting encounter with both teams having different objectives.

Match Details

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Venue: To be confirmed (usually Brazil's home qualifiers are played in various stadiums across the country)

Competition: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers - CONMEBOL (2026 FIFA World Cup qualification)

Head-to-Head Record

The historical rivalry between Brazil and Paraguay has seen numerous encounters. Brazil has generally dominated this fixture, but Paraguay has managed to pull off upsets on occasion.

Let's look at their head-to-head record in official matches:

Overall Head-to-Head (across all competitions):

Total Matches: 79

Brazil Wins: 48

Paraguay Wins: 13

Draws: 18

Recent Head-to-Head (Last 5 matches across all competitions):

Brazil Wins: 3

Paraguay Wins: 1

Draws: 1

Last Meeting (World Cup Qualifier):

Their last encounter was on September 10, 2024, in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier, where Paraguay famously secured a 1-0 victory over Brazil. This result will undoubtedly be on the minds of both teams.

Notable World Cup Qualifiers Encounters:

September 10, 2024: Paraguay 1-0 Brazil

February 1, 2022: Brazil 4-0 Paraguay

June 8, 2021: Paraguay 0-2 Brazil

March 29, 2017: Brazil 3-0 Paraguay

March 30, 2016: Paraguay 2-2 Brazil

Current Form and World Cup Qualifiers Standings

Brazil, under the new management of Carlo Ancelotti, has already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They are currently in a comfortable position in the CONMEBOL standings. However, their recent form in the qualifiers has been somewhat inconsistent, with a disappointing goalless draw against Ecuador in their last outing and a heavy 4-1 loss to Argentina in March. Brazil will be eager to secure a convincing win and provide Ancelotti with his first home victory as manager. Key players like Vinicius Junior and Raphinha will be looked upon to spark their attack.

Paraguay, on the other hand, is in a much more critical position. They are currently placed 3rd in the standings, two points ahead of Brazil, and are in a direct qualification spot. Their recent form has been impressive, as they are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions. This includes a notable 2-0 victory over Uruguay in their last qualifier and a 1-0 win against Argentina in November 2024. Paraguay will be highly motivated to continue their strong run and solidify their place in the World Cup. Their strong defensive organization and opportunistic attack, spearheaded by players like Julio Enciso, will be key to their strategy.

Score Prediction (Analytical Outlook)

Given Brazil's already secured qualification and Paraguay's desperate need for points, combined with their strong recent form and the home advantage for Brazil, this match presents an intriguing dynamic.

Brazil, despite being qualified, will want to put on a show for their home crowd and build momentum under Ancelotti. They possess immense individual talent that can unlock any defense. However, Paraguay's recent defensive solidity and their ability to hit on the counter-attack make them a dangerous opponent.

Paraguay's last victory over Brazil in the qualifiers will give them confidence, but playing away in Brazil is always a daunting task. They will likely adopt a cautious approach, focusing on denying Brazil space and hitting them on the break.

Considering these factors, a tight affair is expected. While Brazil has the offensive firepower, Paraguay's resilience could make it difficult.

Predicted Score:  Brazil 2-1 Paraguay.

The outcome could hinge on individual brilliance from Brazil or a disciplined defensive display and a clinical counter-attack from Paraguay. It promises to be a captivating encounter as both teams strive for their respective goals in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers.

Argentina vs. Colombia: World Cup Qualifier Match

 

 Wednesday, June 11, 2025 (05:30 AM IST), football fans will witness a compelling CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier as Argentina, the reigning World Cup champions, host Colombia at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. While Argentina has already secured their spot and the top position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Colombia is in a more precarious situation, desperate for points to solidify their qualification hopes.

Match Details

Date: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Kick-off Time: 05:30 AM IST (India Standard Time)

Venue: Estadio Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Competition: FIFA World Cup Qualifiers - CONMEBOL (2026 FIFA World Cup qualification)

Head-to-Head Record

The rivalry between Argentina and Colombia has a rich history, with 45 previous encounters across all competitions. Argentina has historically held the upper hand, with 27 wins compared to Colombia's 10 wins, and 8 draws.

Looking at their recent five encounters, Argentina has won three, Colombia has won one, and there has been one draw. Their last meeting, a World Cup qualifier on September 10, 2024, saw Colombia emerge victorious with a 2-1 scoreline.

Some notable World Cup qualifier clashes include:

September 10, 2024: Colombia 2-1 Argentina (FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

February 1, 2022: Argentina 1-0 Colombia (FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

June 8, 2021: Colombia 2-2 Argentina (FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

November 15, 2016: Argentina 3-0 Colombia (FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

November 17, 2015: Colombia 0-1 Argentina (FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

September 5, 1993: A historic match where Colombia famously defeated Argentina 5-0 in Buenos Aires, a result that forced Argentina into a play-off for the 1994 World Cup.

World Cup Qualifiers Standings and Implications

Argentina comes into this match having already cemented their place in the 2026 World Cup and secured the top spot in the CONMEBOL qualifying standings, holding a commanding 10-point lead. This allows coach Lionel Scaloni the flexibility to rotate his squad and potentially give minutes to players who haven't featured as prominently. Lionel Messi is expected to return to the starting XI after being rested in previous matches.

Colombia, on the other hand, is currently battling to secure their direct qualification. They occupy the final direct qualification spot, but their recent form has been concerning, with a winless run of five games (three losses, two draws). A win against the formidable Argentinian side would be a massive boost to their qualification chances, providing much-needed points and confidence. Key players like Luis Diaz will be crucial for "Los Cafeteros" as they seek to break their winless streak.

This match promises to be an intriguing encounter, with Argentina looking to maintain their impressive run and Colombia fighting for their World Cup dreams.