The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is heating up as the group stage nears its conclusion, delivering thrilling matches and surprising results. Chelsea has secured their spot in the knockout stage, while Benfica delivered a stunning victory over Bayern Munich.
Chelsea entered the tournament as one of the twelve UEFA qualifiers, earning their place as a recent Champions League winner. The Blues began their campaign in Group D, facing off against LAFC, Flamengo and Esperance. Chelsea's first match was against LAFC, held in Atlanta. Following that, they played Flamengo and Esperance in Philadelphia. They have successfully navigated the group stage and secured a spot in the knockout rounds. If Chelsea finishes top of their group, they will play their Round of 16 game at Miami's Hard Rock Stadium on June 29, then a possible quarterfinal back in Atlanta on July 5. Should they qualify for the knockouts as runners-up, they will face the winners of Group C at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, with a potential quarterfinal back in Philadelphia. Both semifinals and final take place at MetLife Stadium.
In a major upset, Benfica stunned Bayern Munich with a 1-0 victory to claim the top spot in Group C. Andreas Schjelderup's first-half goal proved to be the difference, as Benfica's goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin made crucial saves to deny Bayern's comeback attempts. Bayern dominated possession, especially in the second half, but they struggled to convert their chances. Bayern's Joshua Kimmich had a goal disallowed due to an offside position of Harry Kane. The result means Benfica finished as Group C winners and will meet the Group D runners-up in Charlotte on June 28. Bayern will meet Group D winners CR Flamengo in Miami on June 29.
The 2025 Club World Cup features a new, expanded format with 32 teams from across the globe competing in the United States. Teams are vying for the prestigious trophy and a share of the nearly £100 million in prize money. The tournament has already witnessed impressive performances from South American teams, while some European giants have faced unexpected challenges. Lionel Messi's Inter Miami have also advanced to the knockouts, adding further star power to the competition. Other teams in action include Boca Juniors, River Plate and Fluminense.
Auckland City FC earned a historic 1-1 draw against Boca Juniors. Christian Gray's equalizer secured a memorable point for the Oceania champions, eliminating Boca Juniors from the tournament.
The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 promises more excitement as the knockout stages approach. Fans can watch the matches on DAZN.
