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
📅 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.
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