It’s fair to say that the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is capturing headlines and hearts across the globe—especially here in the U.S, where this revamped tournament is being hosted for the first time in history. This is a tournament that features the top 32 clubs from all over the world, running from June 14 to July 13 – and culminating in a final that’s to be held at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. With a record prize pool of a mind-blowing $1 billion, this is not just about soccer—this is a global festival that resonates way beyond the pitch for US soccer fans.
The Format & Key Dates
This is no longer the seven-team mini-event it used to be. The Club World Cup is now very much like the FIFA World Cup format: with eight groups of four teams and the top two in each group moving on to the knockout stage. The Round of 16 wrapped up on July 1, with the quarter-finals including high-profile matchups like PSG vs. Bayern Munich. The semi-finals on July 8–9, and the grand finale on July 13 at 3 p.m. ET at MetLife… which will always be a corker, no matter who gets there.
Upsets & Highlights
As with any soccer tournament, there have been some eyebrow-raising outcomes…
- Manchester City. Who would have thought it… the reigning European champions were stunned by Al Hilal in a dramatic 4–3 defeat during extra time in the Round of 16, which was both hugely surprising and very significant given City’s European dominance in the past years.
- Then there was the European giant PSG, who, hot off their UEFA Champions League win, sailed easily past Inter Miami with a 4–0 victory… definitely putting them right up there as one of the teams to beat.
Of course, we also have to mention Chelsea’s extra-time win over Benfica and Bayern Munich’s impressive performance against Flamengo.
What’s at Stake?
This isn’t just for pride. Oh no… there’s plenty more at stake, because the winning club stands to take home up to a mind-blowing $100 million—a sum that rivals Champions League prize money in just a handful of matches. Moreover, FIFA has pledged to distribute the entire $1 billion pool to clubs and solidarity projects – to promote soccer all over the world.
Why It Matters for U.S. Fans
It may not be the biggest sport in the US… but that’s precisely why it’s such a big deal. With fans seeing the very best clubs from Europe, South America, Asia, Africa, and North America compete, it brings an excitement and thrill that’s hard to replicate. It could also help spark interest in local US MLS clubs. Fans want to see their local soccer teams performing right up there with the best in the world, and actually play on the same level.
Young US players who see global soccer stars playing right there in front of them, on home soil, can be inspired to actually become a part of the sport. With this – and the FIFA World Cup being held in the US next year, soccer could well be a whole lot bigger than ever before.
Who Will Win?
The name PSG is being thrown around by some… and given their incredible recent Champions League form, it’s a team that’s definitely up there as one of the frontrunners of the Club World Cup. In fact, PSG at 11/4 odds is a line that’s worth watching for anyone who’s tracking team momentum and looking for a club that’s on top form. With such a deep squad, tactical nous, and clear ambition, they could well be considered one of the most complete outfits in the tournament.
However, as we can see already… anything can happen. The final showdown on July 13 at MetLife will crown the true “world champion” – and they’ll be very well rewarded for it. Teams like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Chelsea are also up there. But even Al Hilal could have a shot, having taken out Man City. Which team will it be? We’ll have to wait and see!
