Marco Bello – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup draw has officially taken place, providing soccer enthusiasts with an exciting lineup of matchups to anticipate as the tournament kicks off on June 14.
This event marks a historic first, as it will be hosted in the United States. Additionally, it will be the inaugural Club World Cup featuring 32 teams from various football confederations including AFC, CAF, Concacaf, CONMEBOL, OFC, and UEFA. As the host nation, the U.S. has secured one slot in this expanded format.
Teams have been organized into eight groups of four, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout stages.
Fans can look forward to a complete schedule detailing dates, matchups, and host cities for this exciting tournament.
Group A: Al Ahly Egypt vs. Inter Miami, 8 p.m. ET (Miami)
… (continuing with all group matches and knockout fixtures)
The initial plan to expand the Club World Cup to 24 teams was intended for 2021; however, the COVID-19 pandemic led to delays in that vision.
Over the last three years, the tournament has seen participation from seven clubs each time. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming expanded format during the draw in Miami, highlighting the unique opportunity it provides for clubs and players globally to compete on a prestigious stage.
Infantino remarked, “Any club, regardless of its origin, can aspire to be part of the FIFA Club World Cup. Similarly, any player, irrespective of their background, can dream of representing one of these elite teams, as they symbolize the pinnacle of football.”
The forthcoming 32-team tournament will include 12 clubs from Europe, six from South America, four from other regions, one from Oceania, and two from North America. This diverse assembly of teams will compete to crown the world’s best club for the first time, showcasing the highest level of international competition.
As the reigning champions, Manchester City will defend their title in the 2025 Club World Cup after their victory over Fluminense in the 2023 final. Spanning 10 days, the tournament will feature a total of seven thrilling matches, ensuring an exhilarating atmosphere for all involved.
Mirroring the format of the FIFA World Cup, which has hosted 32 teams since 1998, the Club World Cup promises to deliver a captivating experience for fans and players alike. Furthermore, it will serve as crucial preparation for the United States ahead of hosting the 2026 World Cup.
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, is set to host both the semifinals and finals of the Club World Cup, providing a preview of the excitement to come for the 2026 World Cup. This prestigious venue will also be the site for the final match of the 2026 tournament, emphasizing its significance in the global soccer landscape.
