The group stage of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup has concluded, with 16 teams advancing to the knockout rounds. While the expanded tournament has drawn mixed reactions—with concerns over empty stadiums and fixture congestion—it has also delivered memorable moments, including strong showings from Flamengo and Botafogo, and the debut of referee cameras.
European powerhouses dominated the group stage, with Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain emerging as title favorites. The only major upset was Atlético Madrid’s elimination in Group B.
Last-16 in full:
- Palmeiras vs Botafogo
- Benfica vs Chelsea
- Internazionale vs Fluminense
- Manchester City vs Al Hilal
- Paris Saint Germain vs Inter Miami
- Flamengo vs FC Bayern Munich
- Real Madrid vs Juventus
- Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey
Key Matches to Watch:
-
PSG vs. Inter Miami: Lionel Messi faces his former club in a headline clash.
-
Real Madrid vs. Juventus: A Champions League-level showdown between two European giants.
-
Flamengo vs. Bayern Munich: A high-stakes battle after both teams impressed in the groups.
The knockout stage kicks off June 28, with the quarterfinals starting July 4. As the tournament progresses, anticipation builds for bigger crowds and higher stakes, setting the stage for an exciting lead-up to the 2026 World Cup in the U.S.