FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Upsets, Messi Magic, and Weather Woes Define Group Stage as Round of 16 Looms

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, with its expanded format and revamped features, has delivered a captivating group stage filled with surprises. From an increased number of participating teams to a new trophy design, additional venues, and the innovative referee cam, this edition held in the United States aims to emulate the grandeur of the quadrennial World Cup.

Organizers have described the tournament as "a celebration of hope, excellence and pride, embodying the journey of every club, player and fan united in their passion for the beautiful game." The inclusion of debutants and the event's month-long duration have significantly elevated its prominence.

Featuring teams from all six confederations—12 from Europe, 6 from South America, 4 each from Africa, Asia, and North, Central America and the Caribbean, 1 from Oceania, and the host nation representative—the 2025 lineup promised excitement and unpredictability.

With the group stage concluded and the Round of 16 set, the tournament has already produced unexpected results, compelling underdog stories, and intense confrontations both on and off the field.

Auckland City's Unlikely Stand

Auckland City, ranked 4,971st in the Opta Power Rankings, entered the Club World Cup as the lowest-ranked team. They found themselves in a group with powerhouses Bayern Munich, Benfica, and Boca Juniors. It's important to note that Auckland City consists of amateur players from New Zealand's Northern League, a competition comprising only 12 teams.

The team's campaign began with a harsh 0-10 defeat against Bayern Munich, the largest margin of victory in the tournament, followed by a 0-6 loss to Benfica.

Facing Argentinian giants Boca Juniors in their final match, Auckland City defied expectations. Despite a massive difference of 4,819 ranking points and Boca Juniors' storied history, the amateurs secured a 1-1 draw, denying Boca Juniors a place in the Round of 16.

Messi Leads Miami to the Round of 16

Many anticipated that Lionel Messi's Inter Miami, grouped with formidable opponents Porto, Al Ahly, and Palmeiras, would struggle to advance. However, with Messi leading the charge alongside Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, Inter Miami secured a spot in the Round of 16, finishing second in Group A.

Despite only securing one victory, it proved sufficient for qualification. Following a draw against Al Ahly in their opening match, Miami faced Porto. Messi's brilliance, highlighted by a remarkable free-kick goal, propelled Miami to a 2-1 victory. A 2-2 draw against Palmeiras sealed their place in the last 16.

Tensions Rise in a 'Heated' Tournament

The final matchday in Group E witnessed heightened tension, as River Plate needed a win against Inter Milan to advance. Inter Milan, however, dashed those hopes. The final whistle led to a near-brawl between River's Marcos Acuna and Inter's Denzel Dumfries, requiring intervention from both teams and support staff. The animosity, stemming from a previous encounter three years prior, saw Acuna taunt Dumfries with the 2022 World Cup trophy logo on his shin guard, a reminder of Argentina's victory over the Netherlands in a contentious quarter-final decided by penalties.

The heat extended beyond player altercations, as heatwaves and extreme temperatures forced teams to provide ice baths and cooling towels for their players. Borussia Dortmund took the extra step of having substitutes watch their match against Mamelodi Sundowns from the locker room to shield them from the scorching conditions, which their coach likened to a 'sauna'. Thunderstorms and lightning caused delays in at least five matches.

In addition to dealing with the elements, ICE (US Immigration and Customs Enforcement) had a visible presence at the tournament. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) also played a role, requiring non-citizens to provide proof of legal status to attend games.

Concerns Arise Ahead of the 2026 World Cup

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, less than a year away, the Club World Cup has highlighted potential issues. Concerns over pitch quality and extreme weather conditions suggest possible challenges.

Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham criticized the playing surfaces, stating, "The pitches aren’t great here. The pitches aren’t great at all," following his team's match against Pachuca at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

Familiar Favorites Still Prevail

While the tournament has showcased underdog stories and unexpected results, the Club World Cup remains dominated by European powerhouses. Teams like Real Madrid and Manchester City are still considered frontrunners for the title. Seattle Sounders, Urawa Reds, Ulsan, Wydad AC and Pachuca were eliminated without earning a single point.

Qualified Teams for the Round of 16

Here are the teams that have advanced to the Round of 16:

• Group A: Palmeiras, Inter Miami
• Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Botafogo
• Group C: Bayern Munich, Benfica
• Group D: Flamengo, Chelsea
• Group E: Inter Milan, Monterrey
• Group F: Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense
• Group G: Manchester City, Juventus
• Group H: Real Madrid, Al Hilal