The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup group stage has been completed, and the bracket is now set for what promises to be a drama-filled round of 16.
Real Madrid wrapped things up emphatically, thumping RB Salzburg 3-0 to book their spot in the knockout phase.
With that result, all 16 knockout contenders are locked in. The schedule features heavyweight clashes, derby-like duels and headline-grabbers.
This expanded edition of the Club World Cup is the first under FIFA’s new 32-team format. The tournament has divided opinion.
Critics point to overpacked calendars and underwhelming attendance in the early rounds.
However, some fans appreciated innovations such as live referee audio, new referee angles, and VAR transparency.
Seeing teams from all over the world compete on one stage has been a refreshing experience for football lovers.
Despite the exit of both Argentine clubs, there has been plenty of South American pride, especially with all four Brazilian sides progressing.
Everyone expected European teams to dominate, and they delivered. Nearly every major UEFA club progressed.
Atletico Madrid were the only high-profile casualty after a disappointing showing in Group B.
However, with Madrid, Benfica, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Bayern Munich involved, the knockout stage is brimming with European royalty.
But the South American threat is very real. Flamengo caught the eye after deservedly beating Chelsea 3-1 in one of the upsets of the tournament.
Botafogo have continued their fairytale summer, while Palmeiras and Fluminense look battle-hardened.
There are also dangerous underdogs such as Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi.
All eyes will be on the legendary Argentine when Paris Saint-Germain face Miami on Sunday.
Messi will face his former club in what could be his last appearance on this stage.
Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 schedule
Saturday, June 28
- Palmeiras vs Botafogo – 5:00 pm BST
- Benfica vs Chelsea – 9:00 pm BST
Sunday, June 29
- PSG vs Inter Miami – 5:00 pm BST
- Flamengo vs Bayern Munich – 9:00 pm BST
Monday, June 30
- Inter Milan vs Fluminense – 8:00 pm BST
- Manchester City vs Al Hilal – 2:00 am BST (early Tuesday, July 1)
Tuesday, July 1
- Real Madrid vs Juventus – 8:00 pm BST
- Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey – 2:00 am BST (early Wednesday, July 2)
