Ranking the FIFA Club World Cup Quarterfinal Matchups

Football News

The FIFA Club World Cup is moving towards its climax, with the quarterfinal stage featuring the remaining eight teams. Following a Round of 16 that saw exits for some European powerhouses like Juventus, Inter Milan, and Manchester City, other contenders have successfully advanced. Let`s preview and rank the four quarterfinal ties scheduled for this weekend, exploring what each matchup promises.

4. Palmeiras vs. Chelsea

Palmeiras progressed from the Round of 16 with a 1-0 victory over fellow Brazilian side Botafogo. They are set to face Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca, who secured their spot with a 4-1 win against Benfica in a match significantly impacted by storms, leading to a lengthy suspension. Maresca commented on the bizarre circumstances, calling the situation “a joke” and questioning the suitability of the venue given the delays. A compelling subplot for this tie is the potential for Palmeiras striker Estevao, who is slated to join Chelsea after the tournament, to play his last game for the Brazilian club against his future team. This promises to be an enticing encounter.

  • Location: Lincoln Financial Field — Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
  • Live stream: Watch on DAZN
  • Odds: Palmeiras +280; Draw +220; Chelsea +105

3. Real Madrid vs. Borussia Dortmund

Real Madrid, led by Xabi Alonso, are matched against Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup quarterfinals. These two prominent clubs have a history of significant encounters, most notably the 2024 Champions League final at Wembley, where Carlo Ancelotti`s Real Madrid emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline against the German side. Notably, Real Madrid`s Jude Bellingham will not be facing his brother Jobe, who recently signed for Dortmund this summer, as Jobe is suspended after receiving a yellow card in the previous round against Monterrey.

  • Location: MetLife Stadium — East Rutherford, New Jersey
  • Live stream: Watch on DAZN
  • Odds: Real Madrid -190; Draw +330; BVB +430

2. Fluminense vs. Al-Hilal

This quarterfinal features perhaps the two most surprising results from the Round of 16. Fluminense secured their place by eliminating 2025 Champions League finalist Inter Milan with a 2-0 win, while Al-Hilal, managed by Simone Inzaghi, caused a major upset by defeating Manchester City 4-3. As these two unexpected quarterfinalists meet, one is guaranteed a place in the tournament`s top four and will face the winner of the Chelsea vs. Palmeiras match.

  • Location: Camping World Stadium — Orlando, Florida
  • Live stream: Watch on DAZN
  • Odds: Fluminense +180; Draw +230; Al-Hilal +150

1. PSG vs. Bayern Munich

PSG is set to face Bayern Munich in what is widely anticipated as one of the marquee matchups of the entire tournament. This quarterfinal pits the German powerhouse against the winners of the 2024-25 Champions League. The winner of this highly anticipated clash will significantly boost their claim to becoming world champions. PSG has shown strong form, comfortably winning their Round of 16 tie against Inter Miami 4-0, while Bayern Munich overcame Flamengo with a 4-2 victory. This is undoubtedly a must-watch fixture.

  • Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium — Atlanta, Georgia
  • Live stream: Watch on DAZN
  • Odds: PSG +120; Draw +260; Bayern Munich +210
Torin Blake
Torin Blake

Meet Torin Blake, a passionate journalist based in Bristol, England. With a keen eye for detail, he covers everything from football rivalries to cricket showdowns. Torin’s knack for storytelling brings the thrill of sports to life, whether it’s a local rugby match or an international boxing upset. He’s always chasing the next big scoop.

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