The 2025 Club World Cup bracket is now set for the knockout stages, with the world’s best club teams battling for global supremacy across the United States. After a dramatic group phase that saw both expected and unexpected results, the round of 16 has delivered thrilling matchups, jaw-dropping moments, and a few surprises that have fans buzzing. With Real Madrid, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and other giants still in contention, the path to the final is clearer—but far from predictable.
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The Knockout Stage: Who’s In and Who’s Out
Sixteen teams have advanced to the knockout rounds of the 2025 Club World Cup bracket, each with their own story of survival and ambition. The group stage was not without drama. Portuguese powerhouse FC Porto failed to make the cut after a stunning loss to Inter Miami, courtesy of a Lionel Messi free kick. Spanish giant Atlético Madrid also missed out, edged by Brazilian side Botafogo on goal difference despite both teams finishing level on points. All four Brazilian clubs—Palmeiras, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Fluminense—have progressed, showcasing the depth of South American football.
Manchester City cruised through their group, while Bayern Munich and Chelsea had to settle for second place in theirs. The knockout phase promises even more excitement, as every match now carries the potential for elimination and glory.
The Club World Cup Bracket: Key Matchups and Predictions
The round of 16 is packed with headline fixtures and potential upsets. Here’s a quick look at the most recent and upcoming games:
- Palmeiras vs. Botafogo (June 28, 12 p.m. ET): An all-Brazilian clash that set the tone for the knockout rounds.
- Benfica vs. Chelsea (June 28, 4 p.m. ET): Chelsea triumphed 4-1 after extra time in a match delayed by severe weather, advancing to face Palmeiras in the quarterfinals.
- Paris Saint-Germain vs. Inter Miami (June 29, 12 p.m. ET): Lionel Messi faced his former club in a highly anticipated showdown.
- Flamengo vs. Bayern Munich (June 29, 4 p.m. ET): A test of South American flair against European power.
- Inter vs. Fluminense (June 30, 3 p.m. ET): Italian and Brazilian giants collide.
- Manchester City vs. Al Hilal (June 30, 9 p.m. ET): City’s knockout journey begins against a strong Saudi side.
- Real Madrid vs. Juventus (July 1, 3 p.m. ET): A Champions League-level classic.
- Borussia Dortmund vs. Monterrey (July 1, 9 p.m. ET): A chance for underdogs to shine.
The bracket is split, with Manchester City, Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Benfica on the “easier” side, while PSG, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Juventus, Inter Miami, Monterrey, Flamengo, and Borussia Dortmund battle it out on the tougher half. This setup could see City cruise toward the final, while the bottom half promises a gauntlet of heavyweight clashes.
Key Point Summary: What You Need to Know
- Sixteen teams remain in the 2025 Club World Cup bracket.
- All four Brazilian clubs advanced, while Porto and Atlético Madrid were eliminated.
- Chelsea beat Benfica 4-1 after extra time in a weather-affected thriller.
- Manchester City is favored on the easier side of the bracket.
- PSG vs. Inter Miami and Real Madrid vs. Juventus are the standout matches.
- The knockout stage runs through July 1, with quarterfinals beginning July 4.
The Road Ahead: Who Will Reach the Final?
As the Club World Cup bracket narrows, experts and fans alike are making their predictions. Manchester City is seen as the team to beat, especially given their favorable path to the final. However, the bottom half of the bracket—featuring PSG, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Juventus—will test the resolve of any survivor. Many analysts believe whoever emerges from this side will be battle-hardened and potentially fatigued, giving City an advantage should they reach the final.
On social media and YouTube, pundits are split. Some are backing Bayern Munich to edge out Real Madrid in a potential semifinal, citing their recent form and cohesion under new management. Others are convinced Manchester City’s dominance will continue, with Erling Haaland and company looking unstoppable. Meanwhile, fan channels and influencers are buzzing with predictions, upset alerts, and live reactions to every twist and turn.
Engaging the Fans: Social Media and Streaming
The Club World Cup bracket is not just a tournament for the stadiums—it’s a global event for fans everywhere. Streaming platforms like DAZN are offering every game for free, while TNT Sports is broadcasting select matches. On YouTube and Instagram, highlights, analysis, and fan reactions are flooding feeds, with millions tuning in to watch Messi, Mbappé, and other superstars in action.
Despite some early concerns about empty stadiums and a packed calendar, the knockout stage has reignited interest. The promise of high-stakes matchups and the chance to see the world’s best clubs compete for a record $125 million prize is drawing eyes from every corner of the globe.
Conclusion: The Club World Cup Bracket Heats Up
The 2025 Club World Cup bracket is delivering drama, surprises, and world-class football. With every match now do-or-die, the pressure is on for the remaining teams to prove their worth. Whether it’s Manchester City’s quest for dominance, PSG’s star power, or the resilience of Brazil’s finest, the tournament is shaping up to be one for the ages.
As the quarterfinals approach, all eyes will be on the evolving Club World Cup bracket. Will the favorites hold firm, or will an underdog rise to the occasion? The next round promises even more unforgettable moments.
Don’t miss a second of the action—follow the Club World Cup bracket as it unfolds and join the conversation online!