Football fans around the world are watching closely as the path to the final of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup becomes clearer. The tournament, taking place in the United States, is the biggest Club World Cup ever held, featuring 32 teams from across the globe. With some big clubs already knocked out, the competition is wide open, and there are several thrilling match-ups still possible. Here’s how things are shaping up.
How the Knockout Stage Works
The Club World Cup started with eight groups of four teams. The top two teams from each group moved into the last 16, creating a knockout stage leading all the way to the final on 13 July at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Each round is a single match. If the match is tied after 90 minutes, it proceeds to extra time, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary. From now on, every match is crucial, win, or go home.
Big Names Still in the Race
Several major European and South American clubs have made it through to the quarter-finals. Here are the confirmed quarter-final ties:
- Fluminense (Brazil) vs Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia)
- Palmeiras (Brazil) vs Chelsea (England)
- Paris Saint-Germain (France) vs Bayern Munich (Germany)
- Real Madrid (Spain) vs Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
These ties promise some fascinating battles. South American clubs like Fluminense and Palmeiras are eager to prove themselves against the big names from Europe, while European giants like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Chelsea have their sights firmly set on the trophy.
Surprises So Far
One of the biggest surprises so far has been Manchester City’s exit from the tournament. The European champions were defeated 4-3 in extra time by Al Hilal in the last 16, bringing an end to Pep Guardiola’s hopes of adding the Club World Cup to his trophy haul.
Another big story was Inter Miami’s journey. The team from the USA, featuring superstar Lionel Messi, reached the last 16 but was knocked out by PSG after losing 4-0. Despite the loss, their participation created huge interest among local fans.
Who Could Meet in the Final?
The Road Ahead
As the tournament heads into its final stages, fans can expect more thrilling games. Every team left has a genuine chance of lifting the trophy.
- European clubs are favourites, thanks to their strong squads and international experience.
- But South American teams are determined to bring the trophy back to their continent for the first time since Corinthians won it in 2012.
No matter who wins, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has already proven to be historic, full of drama, and a sign of how global club football has become.
Final Match
- 13 July, 2025
- MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA
Conclusion
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has delivered plenty of surprises so far, and the road to the final remains full of exciting possibilities. Fans around the world eagerly await to see which club will emerge as the new world champion.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
