The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup has delivered electrifying group stage action, and now the stage is set for the knockout rounds.
With 16 top-tier clubs from across the globe vying for glory, the round of 16 promises high-stakes drama and unforgettable moments. Here’s a rundown of the teams that have made it to the last 16, and what to expect as they battle for a spot in the quarter-finals.
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The Last 16 Teams
1. Palmeiras (Brazil, Group A Winners)
The Brazilian side topped Group A with an unbeaten run, showcasing a high-pressing defence and a potent attack led by José López, Estêvão, and Maurício. Their ability to generate quality shots makes them a threat, but they face a tough challenge against rivals Botafogo, against whom they’ve struggled recently. Can they break their winless streak in this all-Brazilian clash?
2. Inter Miami (USA, Group A Runners-Up)
Led by Lionel Messi, Inter Miami defied expectations by advancing from Group A without a loss. Their draw against Palmeiras and Messi’s stunning free-kick against Porto highlight their potential, but facing PSG, Messi’s former club, will test their imbalanced MLS squad. Expect fireworks if Messi gets space.
3. Paris Saint-Germain (France, Group B Winners)
The UEFA Champions League winners are a juggernaut, blending possession-heavy play with relentless pressing. Despite a shock loss to Botafogo, PSG topped Group B with ease. They’re heavy favourites against Inter Miami, but must stay sharp to avoid Messi’s magic from set pieces.
4. Botafogo (Brazil, Group B Runners-Up)
Botafogo sent shockwaves through the tournament with a statement win over PSG. Their disciplined defence and clinical finisher Igor Jesus make them a formidable side. As favourites against Palmeiras, their recent head-to-head dominance could carry them deep into the tournament.
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5. Benfica (Portugal, Group C Winners)
Benfica’s high expected goal differential and Ángel Di María’s penalty-taking prowess carried them to the top of Group C. Their stingy defence faces a stern test against Chelsea, but their ability to create chances could keep them in the fight.
6. Bayern Munich (Germany, Group C Runners-Up)
The Bundesliga giants cruised through Group C with emphatic wins, including a 10-0 thrashing of Auckland City. With stars like Olise, Müller, Coman, and Musiala in form, Bayern’s attacking firepower is unmatched. Their clash with Flamengo feels like a final in disguise.
7. Flamengo (Brazil, Group D Winners)
Flamengo’s comeback win over Chelsea showcased their big-game credentials. Filipe Luís’ side plays fearless football, and their ability to recover from deficits makes them dangerous. Facing Bayern Munich will be a colossal challenge, but they’ve proven they can upset giants.
8. Chelsea (England, Group D Runners-Up)
Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea rebounded from a loss to Flamengo to secure second in Group D. Enzo Fernández and Liam Delap have been bright spots, but they’ll need to be at their best to overcome Benfica’s organised defence. Their path to the final avoids PSG and Bayern for now, which is a plus.
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9. Inter Milan (Italy, Group E Winners)
Inter grew stronger as Group E progressed, with Nicolò Barella and Lautaro Martínez leading the charge. They have shown control within matches, but low shooting accuracy could be a concern against Fluminense’s tight defence.
10. Monterrey (Mexico, Group E Runners-Up)
Monterrey’s confidence soared with a 4-0 win over Urawa, thanks to goalkeeper Esteban Andrada’s heroics. They’re a tricky opponent for Borussia Dortmund, and their ability to capitalise on chances could spring an upset.
11. Borussia Dortmund (Germany, Group F Winners)
Dortmund quietly advanced with solid performances, led by Jobe Bellingham’s emergence in the final third. Their high ball recovery rate and attacking third possession gains make them a threat, but they’ll need to raise their game against Monterrey.
12. Fluminense (Brazil, Group F Runners-Up)
Fluminense’s direct attacking style has been effective, but their low xG per shot suggests they need better chances against Inter Milan. Their stingy defence could make this a low-scoring affair, with potential for a trap game.
13. Manchester City (England, Group G Winners)
The only team to win all three group games, Manchester City dominated Group G, dismantling Juventus 5-2. New signings Rayan Aït-Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders have settled in, and Erling Haaland is firing. Al Hilal’s defence will test them, but City are favourites.
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14. Juventus (Italy, Group G Runners-Up)
Despite a heavy loss to Manchester City, Juventus advanced with Kenan Yildiz shining. Their high big chance created rate shows potential, but facing Real Madrid in the last 16 is a daunting task. Can they rediscover their spark?
15. Real Madrid (Spain, Group H Winners)
Real Madrid hit their stride with a 3-0 win over RB Salzburg, adapting to Xabi Alonso’s vision. Their depth and quality make them a powerhouse, but Juventus could exploit any inconsistencies. A potential Bellingham brothers clash in the quarters looms.
16. Al Hilal (Saudi Arabia, Group H Runners-Up)
Al Hilal’s defence, led by Yassine Bounou and Kalidou Koulibaly, is among the tournament’s best, allowing just one goal in the group stage. However, their poor shooting accuracy (21.1%) could hinder them against Manchester City’s relentless attack.
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The FIFA Club World Cup round of 16 is packed with thrilling matchups, and the road to the final at MetLife Stadium is wide open. Will European giants like Manchester City, PSG, or Real Madrid dominate, or can Brazilian sides like Botafogo or Flamengo pull off an upset?
