GOAL takes a look at the can't-miss matches in the Group Stage of this summer's competition
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is just days away, and anticipation is higher than ever. Thirty-two teams are set to clash, going head-to-head in the expanded format of the marquee summer competition, and some scintillating matches are on the cards.
Clubs from six of the seven continents around the world are sending representatives to the competitions, and as a result, there are some fantastic storylines early on in the competition. With nearly $1 billion in prize money being handed out to all participating teams, the stakes are higher than ever.
From the opening match featuring Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and Egyptian heavyweights Al Ahly to a European showdown between giants Atletico Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, GOAL takes a look at the top five Group Stage matches to watch ahead of this summer's competition.
Watch every FIFA Club World Cup game free on DAZNStream nowGetty Images SportInter Miami vs. Al Ahly
When: Saturday, June 14 – 8 p.m. ET
Where: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, FL
Why: It's the opening match of the competition, it's the game that sets a precedent for the tournament, and it's a "home" match for Lionel Messi and the The contest will serve as the beginning of a month of footballing festivities around the competition, while establishing the excitement and hype for the tournament.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesAtletico Madrid vs. PSG
When: Sunday, June 15 – 3 p.m. ET
Where: Rose Bowl – Pasadena, CA
Why: Two global powerhouses going at it, and two intense managers in Luis Enrique and Diego Simeone, who have opposite ideals, battling it out on the touchline – for fans, this is a final in the Group Stage. Simeone and Atletico Madrid are a possession-based team who are known for their defensive prowess around Europe. Enrique's PSG, meanwhile, are the reigning European champions and offer a blockbuster attack that tore apart some of Europe's best this season.
This will be a thrilling affair.
Getty ImagesReal Madrid vs. Al Hilal
When: Wednesday, June 18 – 3 p.m. ET
Where: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, FL
Why: Saudi Arabia's best club over the past two years, Aleksandr Mitrovic and Co. will look to make a statement at the tournament this summer – and it begins with a tango against Madrid, meanwhile, will look to start their tournament out hot as they look to claim their sixth Club World Cup title with the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham in their ranks. Former Barcelona defender Joao Cancelo is set to return from injury for the competition, handing the Asian outfit a massive boost, too.
gettyBayern Munich vs. Boca Juniors
When: Friday, June 20 – 9 p.m. ET
Where: Hard Rock Stadium – Miami Gardens, FL
Why: A crossover between continental giants, Harry Kane and the Bundesliga powerhouse will clash with Edinson Cavani and the Argentine club in a highly anticipated contest. The greater Miami area is home to one of the largest Argentine populations in the USA, and Bayern have one of the biggest American fanbase contingents as well, meaning both clubs should be well-represented in the stands for this showcase.
