Club World Cup 2025 is set to be the biggest yet! Get details on teams, fixtures, venues, and how to watch the expanded FIFA tournament.
Introduction
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is making headlines as the first edition of the revamped 32-team format. Featuring top clubs like Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Al Ahly, the tournament promises high-stakes football action across the USA. Here’s everything you need to know about the schedule, participating teams, and why this could reshape global club football.
Expanded Format: What’s New in 2025?
For the first time, the Club World Cup will include 32 teams (up from 7), mimicking the FIFA World Cup structure. Key changes:
- Four slots each for UEFA and CONMEBOL
- Host nation (USA) gets automatic qualification
- Tournament duration extended to June 15–July 13, 2025
FIFA president Gianni Infantino called it a “landmark moment for club football.”
Confirmed Teams and Star Players
Top clubs already qualified:
- Europe: Man City (ENG), Real Madrid (ESP), Bayern Munich (GER)
- South America: Palmeiras (BRA), Flamengo (BRA)
- Africa: Al Ahly (EGY), Wydad Casablanca (MAR)
- Asia: Al Hilal (KSA), Urawa Reds (JPN)
Players to watch: Erling Haaland (Man City), Vinícius Jr. (Real Madrid), Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly legend).
Venues and Match Schedule
Matches will be played across 9 U.S. cities, including:
- New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium)
- Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium)
- Miami (Hard Rock Stadium)
The Club World Cup 2025 schedule will see:
- Group stage: June 15–25
- Knockouts: June 28–July 6
- Final: July 13 (likely in New Jersey)
How to Watch in India
Indian fans can catch live coverage on:
- TV: Sony Sports Network
- Streaming: SonyLIV, JioTV
- Free highlights: FIFA+
Matches will air late night/early morning IST due to U.S. time zones.
Controversies and Challenges
Critics argue the expanded format:
- Overloads player schedules (Pep Guardiola called it “unsustainable”)
- Dilutes prestige by including more teams
- Risks low attendance with neutral venues
FIFA, however, sees it as a $3 billion revenue opportunity.
Conclusion: A New Era for Club Football?
The Club World Cup 2025 could redefine global club rivalries, but its success hinges on fan engagement and player fitness. Will it surpass the UEFA Champions League in prestige? The football world waits eagerly.
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