The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, hosted in the United States from June 14 to July 13, has reached a thrilling stage with the group phase nearing its conclusion. With two matchdays completed, five teams have secured their spots in the round of 16, while several others, including giants like Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, are still fighting for qualification. Here’s a comprehensive look at the current standings, qualification scenarios, and tie-breaker rules, as explained by Al Jazeera.
Teams Qualified for the Round of 16
After two games, the following five clubs have clinched their places in the knockout stage with two wins each, earning six points:
- Botafogo (Brazil)
- Bayern Munich (Germany)
- Flamengo (Brazil)
- Manchester City (England)
- Juventus (Italy)
These teams have secured their spots and can prepare for the round of 16, which begins on June 28.
Teams Eliminated from the Tournament
Seven clubs have been knocked out after losing both of their opening matches:
- Auckland City (New Zealand)
- Los Angeles FC (USA)
- Urawa Red Diamonds (Japan)
- Ulsan HD (South Korea)
- Wydad AC (Morocco)
- Al Ain (UAE)
- Pachuca (Mexico)
Qualification Needs for Key Teams
Several prominent teams are still in contention but need specific results in their final group matches to advance. Here’s what they require:
- Real Madrid (Group H): With four points from a win and a draw, Real Madrid lead Group H on goal difference over RB Salzburg. A win against Salzburg in their final match will guarantee progression. However, a draw could complicate matters if Al Hilal defeats Pachuca, resulting in a three-way tie at five points, triggering tie-breaker rules.
- Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) (Group B): The European champions have three points after a win and a loss. They face Seattle Sounders in their final Group B match and must win to secure six points and advance alongside Botafogo. A draw or loss could jeopardize their chances, given the competitive nature of their group.
- Inter Miami (Group A): With four points after a draw and a win (highlighted by Lionel Messi’s stunning free kick against FC Porto), Inter Miami can secure qualification by avoiding defeat against group leaders Palmeiras in their final match. A draw or win will likely see them through to the round of 16.
- Chelsea (Group D): Chelsea, with three points from a win and a loss, face a crucial match against ES Tunis, who also have three points. A draw will suffice for Chelsea due to their superior goal difference, but a win would ensure qualification.
- Inter Milan (Group E): The UEFA Champions League runners-up have four points after a draw against Monterrey and a win over Urawa Red Diamonds. They face group leaders River Plate in their final match. A win would secure the group’s top spot, but a draw could lead to a tie-breaker scenario if Monterrey achieves a significant victory over Urawa.
Can Al Hilal and Mamelodi Sundowns Still Qualify?
Yes, both Al Hilal and Mamelodi Sundowns remain in contention for the round of 16, though their paths are challenging:
- Al Hilal (Group H): With two points from two draws, the Saudi club faces eliminated side Pachuca in their final match. A substantial victory is essential to boost their goal difference, which could be decisive if Real Madrid and RB Salzburg draw, leading to a three-way tie at five points. Al Hilal’s qualification hinges on a big win and favorable tie-breaker outcomes.
- Mamelodi Sundowns (Group F): The South African side, known for their vibrant play, also has four points. They face Fluminense in their final match, where a win would secure six points and likely a spot in the knockouts. A draw, resulting in four points, may not suffice, as Borussia Dortmund (also on four points) are favored to defeat Ulsan HD, potentially edging out Sundowns on goal difference or other tie-breakers.
Other Teams with a Chance to Qualify
In addition to the above, several teams are still in the race for the round of 16:
- Fluminense (Brazil)
- Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
- Atlético Madrid (Spain)
- River Plate (Argentina)
- FC Porto (Portugal)
- Benfica (Portugal)
- Al Ahly (Egypt)
- Palmeiras (Brazil)
- Boca Juniors (Argentina)
- RB Salzburg (Austria)
- Seattle Sounders (USA)
These teams’ fates will be determined by their final group-stage matches, with outcomes depending on wins, draws, or tie-breaker scenarios.
Tie-Breaker Rules
In the event of teams finishing level on points, the following tie-breaker criteria are applied in order until a ranking is determined:
- Head-to-head winner between the tied teams.
- Head-to-head goal difference between the tied teams.
- Head-to-head goals scored between the tied teams.
- Disciplinary points (based on yellow and red cards, with fewer points being better).
- Drawing of lots as a last resort.