FIFA has confirmed the dates, venues, and kick-off times for the 63 total matches of the highly anticipated 2025 Club World Cup, which will feature an impressive line-up of 32 teams representing various regions from around the globe. This prestigious tournament is set to commence on June 14, with a thrilling opening match at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium where Inter Miami will take on the formidable Al Ahly FC. This stand-alone match marks the beginning of a month-long football celebration that fans are eagerly looking forward to.
From the opening match, the tournament will progress through a series of encounters until the grand finale, which will take place on July 13 at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. This venue has been chosen not only for the final showdown but will also host both semifinal matches, highlighting its significance in the tournament’s structure.
A total of 12 venues will be utilized across the U.S., showcasing six Major League Soccer (MLS) stadiums among the chosen locations. In addition to New Jersey and Miami, the tournament will visit stadiums in vibrant cities such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Los Angeles, Nashville, Orlando, Philadelphia, Seattle, and Washington D.C. This diverse selection of venues is sure to enhance the tournament experience, allowing fans from different locales to witness top-tier football firsthand.
Inter Miami is set to kickstart the competition with their opening match, and shortly thereafter, they will travel to Atlanta to face Porto on June 19. Fans are also eagerly anticipating their final group stage match scheduled for June 23, where they will encounter Palmeiras.
In parallel, the Seattle Sounders, representing MLS, will engage in all three of their group stage matches within their home turf in Seattle. They will host Botafogo on June 15, a match that promises to set the tone for the tournament. Following this, they will meet Atletico Madrid on June 20 and conclude their group stage journey against the illustrious Paris Saint-Germain on June 23.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed his excitement about the tournament, stating, “The paths for the 32 teams have been set and we now know at what time and where, among 12 top-class stadiums, we will enjoy the 48 exciting group stage clashes.” He emphasized the significance of this event, not only for fans in the U.S. but also for visitors from around the world traveling to these beautiful cities to support their clubs. Furthermore, for those unable to attend in person, the matches will be accessible live and for free through platforms such as DAZN and FIFA+, extending the reach of this global tournament even further.
Infantino highlighted that this match schedule is more than just a series of fixtures; it is a testament to the global nature of club football. He expressed his vision for club football to be truly international, encouraging fans worldwide to engage with the beautiful game.
As teams gear up for this monumental tournament, clubs around the world will continue their domestic league competitions. Both Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders, despite their strong performances in the MLS playoffs, had their respective seasons cut short, with Miami bowing out in the first round while Seattle faced a tough defeat against the LA Galaxy in the Western Conference Final. Their experiences will surely fuel their ambitions as they prepare for the Club World Cup next summer, promising exciting matchups and unforgettable moments for football fans everywhere.
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