Marco Bello – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
The draw for the eagerly awaited 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has concluded, allowing fans to start gearing up for the tournament that kicks off on June 14.
This tournament is particularly historic as it will be hosted in the United States for the very first time. It also marks a significant expansion, featuring 32 clubs from various confederations including AFC, CAF, Concacaf, CONMEBOL, OFC, and UEFA. Additionally, the U.S. will field one team as the host nation.
The participating clubs have been divided into eight groups, each containing four teams. The top two teams from each group will move on to the knockout stage.
Here’s a rundown of the full tournament schedule, including match dates, fixtures, and host cities.
Group A: Al Ahly Egypt vs. Inter Miami, 8 p.m. ET (Miami)
… (continuing with details for all group matchups and knockout rounds)
The initial plan to elevate the Club World Cup to 24 teams was set for 2021, but it faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In recent years, the tournament has seen participation from seven clubs each time. FIFA President Gianni Infantino shared his enthusiasm about the expanded event during the draw in Miami, highlighting the global platform it offers for clubs and players alike.
Infantino expressed, “Every club, regardless of their background, can aspire to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup. Likewise, players from any nation can dream of representing these elite clubs, which epitomize the pinnacle of global football.”
This upcoming tournament, featuring 32 teams, will include 12 clubs from Europe, six from South America, four from various other regions, one from Oceania, and two from North America. This diverse array of teams is set to crown the best club in the world for the first time, promising a showcase of premier competition.
As the defending champion, Manchester City will aim to retain their title in the 2025 Club World Cup following their victory against Fluminense in the 2023 final. The tournament will unfold over ten days, featuring a total of seven matches, ensuring a thrilling and vibrant atmosphere.
Following the traditional World Cup format, which has included 32 teams since 1998, the Club World Cup is set to deliver an exhilarating experience for both fans and players. Moreover, this tournament will serve as essential preparation for the United States, which is gearing up to host the 2026 World Cup.
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will be the venue for both the semifinals and the finals of the Club World Cup, offering a preview of the excitement to come for the 2026 World Cup. This prestigious arena is also slated to host the final match of the 2026 tournament, further enhancing its significance in the world of soccer.
