The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is in full swing, with teams battling it out for a spot in the knockout rounds. As we head toward the final stages, here’s everything you need to know about the latest match results, standout moments, and what to expect going forward.
Miami’s Historic Qualification: A Showdown with PSG Awaits
MIAMI GARDENS – In a thrilling match, Inter Miami secured a historic qualification for the 2025 Club World Cup knockout round. With a 2-2 draw against Palmeiras, goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez helped the team overcome early challenges and make their way into the round of 16.
This marks a monumental achievement for the team, which came in as underdogs.
Miami’s performance exceeded expectations, especially considering the squad’s lack of depth. Despite some early struggles, young players like Noah Allen, Ian Fray, and Benjamin Cremaschi stood tall under pressure, pushing Miami to new heights. The match was also a showcase of Lionel Messi‘s leadership, as his presence continued to inspire the team.
Now, with a spot in the next round, Miami’s biggest test awaits: a face-off against Paris Saint-Germain. Messi will go up against his former Ligue 1 side, PSG, in what is set to be a highly charged encounter. With the drama building, this promises to be one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. – Lizzy Becherano
Group B Drama: PSG, Botafogo, and Atletico Madrid’s Heartbreak
PASADENA – The drama of Group B was a spectacle to behold, with Paris Saint-Germain advancing to the knockout stage after a dominant 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders.
However, Atletico Madrid found themselves eliminated despite a 1-0 win over Botafogo, which was not enough to see them through due to their earlier loss to PSG.
Atletico Madrid pushed hard against Botafogo, creating numerous opportunities but only managing to score late in the game. The Spanish side’s elimination was a bitter blow, as they had won two out of three matches in a tough group. Atletico’s struggles raised questions about their squad depth and preparations for the competition.
Meanwhile, Botafogo continued their surprising run. Despite losing to Atletico, the Copa Libertadores champions advanced to the next round, much to the delight of their fans.
Botafogo’s manager, Renato Paiva, expressed pride in representing Brazilian football on the global stage. The Brazilian side will now face a new challenge in the round of 16. – Alex Kirkland
Chelsea’s Pressure Builds in Extreme Heat
PHILADELPHIA – As temperatures in Philadelphia soared close to 100°F, Chelsea FC found themselves battling not only the sweltering heat but also mounting pressure ahead of their crucial Group D match against Esperance de Tunis.
With temperatures hitting 91°F at kick-off, Chelsea had to adjust their training to conserve energy for the match. Manager Enzo Maresca emphasized the importance of resting players but also acknowledged the tough conditions.
Chelsea will need a win to progress to the knockout rounds, especially as they’ve struggled with fatigue. The Blues will be missing Nicolas Jackson due to suspension, but new signing Liam Delap is set to lead their attack. – James Olley
Man City’s Unique Team Bonding with Jenga
ATLANTA, Ga. – Manchester City are keeping themselves entertained during the Club World Cup with an unusual team activity: Jenga. Players have been competing with a giant version of the game at their hotel in Boca Raton, Florida, to pass the time between matches.
This lighthearted competition is helping the squad stay engaged ahead of their next match. Manager Pep Guardiola is keen to keep the players mentally sharp while also allowing them to relax during the tournament. – Rob Dawson
Botafogo’s Fairytale Continues
PASADENA, Calif. – The Copa Libertadores champions, Botafogo, are proving that anything can happen in the Club World Cup. Despite a narrow loss to Atletico Madrid, they secured a spot in the knockout rounds with a second-place finish in Group B.
This marks a significant achievement for the Brazilian club, who will now take on Group A’s winner in the round of 16. – Antônio Chamorro
Filipe LuÃs’ Insight on European and Brazilian Club Differences
After Flamengo’s win over Chelsea, manager Filipe LuÃs shared his thoughts on the disparity between European and South American football, noting that Brazilian clubs are on a par with the second-tier European teams.
His comments came after a series of surprising results, such as Porto’s 4-4 draw with Al Ahly and Atletico Madrid’s elimination, suggesting that the gap between European and South American clubs might not be as wide as many think. – Paulo Cobos
Match Previews and Odds for Upcoming Games
Auckland City FC vs. Boca Juniors (Group C)
- Location: Nashville, Tenn.
- Odds: Auckland City FC (+4000), Draw (+2900), Boca Juniors (-50000)
- Preview: Despite a poor showing by Auckland City, Boca Juniors are heavily favored to win this one, with Edinson Cavani missing due to injury. Boca needs this win to secure a spot in the next round.
Benfica vs. Bayern Munich (Group C)
- Location: Miami, Fla.
- Odds: Benfica (+300), Draw (+225), Bayern Munich (-105)
- Preview: With qualification already secured for Bayern Munich, they will likely rotate their squad. However, Benfica will need a win to ensure they top the group and avoid a tougher knockout round.
Esperance de Tunis vs. Chelsea (Group D)
- Location: Philadelphia, Penn.
- Odds: Esperance de Tunis (+850), Draw (+450), Chelsea (-400)
- Preview: Chelsea must avoid defeat to advance to the knockout rounds. They’ll be without Nicolas Jackson, but the team is confident they can handle Esperance in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter.
LAFC vs. Flamengo (Group D)
- Location: Orlando, Fla.
- Odds: LAFC (+350), Draw (+280), Flamengo (-135)
- Preview: Flamengo is already through to the next round, but they need at least a draw to top the group. Meanwhile, LAFC is eliminated but will fight for pride in their final match.
