The group stage of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has wrapped up, with 16 elite teams advancing to the knockout rounds in what promises to be a dramatic summer showdown. As anticipation builds ahead of next year’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, this revamped Club World Cup is offering fans a preview of the high-stakes action to come.
Despite early criticism over empty seats and a congested global football calendar, the tournament has produced its fair share of compelling moments. Brazilian clubs Flamengo and Botafogo have added heartwarming storylines, while the innovative referee camera has provided fans with a fresh perspective from the pitch.
Almost all the major European heavyweights have booked their spots in the Round of 16, except Atlético Madrid, who crashed out in Group B. Meanwhile, Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Paris Saint-Germain remain firm favorites to lift the trophy as the knockout rounds kick off.
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The most anticipated fixture of the Round of 16 will see Lionel Messi and Inter Miami go head-to-head with PSG, his former club in a clash set to draw global attention. Another standout fixture is the classic European showdown between Real Madrid and Juventus, promising all the flair and tension of a Champions League final.
Full Round of 16 Fixtures – 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
Saturday, June 28
Palmeiras vs Botafogo – 12 p.m. ET
Benfica vs Chelsea – 4 p.m. ET
Sunday, June 29
Paris Saint-Germain vs Inter Miami – 12 p.m. ET
Flamengo vs Bayern Munich – 4 p.m. ET
Monday, June 30
Inter Milan vs Fluminense – 3 p.m. ET
Manchester City vs Al Hilal – 9 p.m. ET
Tuesday, July 1
Real Madrid vs Juventus – 3 p.m. ET
Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey – 9 p.m. ET
As the world watches, all eyes will be on Messi’s showdown, Europe’s elite, and whether South America can break European dominance. With the knockout stage underway, the road to Club World Cup glory just got real and the world is watching.
