The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup group stage has come and gone, and the bracket is now set for what promises to be a drama-filled Round of 16.
Real Madrid wrapped things up emphatically, thumping RB Salzburg out with a 3-0 beating to book their spot in the knockouts.
With that result, all 16 knockout contenders are locked in. The schedule features heavyweight clashes, derby-like duels, and headline-grabbers.
This expanded edition of the Club World Cup is the first under FIFA’s new 32-team format. The tournament has divided opinion.
Critics point to overpacked calendars and underwhelming attendance in the early rounds.
However, some fans liked innovations like the live referee audio, new referee angles, and VAR transparency.
Also, seeing teams from all over the world compete on this one stage has been a refreshing football experience for lovers of the beautiful game.
And despite the exit of both Argentine clubs, there has been plenty of South American pride, especially with all four Brazilian sides making it through.
Everyone expected European teams to dominate, and they delivered. Nearly every major UEFA club progressed.
Atletico Madrid were the only high-profile casualty after a disappointing showing in Group B.
Still, with Real Madrid, Benfica, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Bayern Munich involved, the knockouts are beaming with European royalty.
But the South American threat is very real. Flamengo caught the eye after deservedly beating Chelsea 3-1 in one of the upsets of the showpiece.
Meanwhile, Botafogo continue their fairytale summer, and Palmeiras and Fluminense look battle-hardened.
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There are also dangerous floaters like Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi.
Speaking of Messi, all eyes will be on the legendary Argentine on Sunday when Paris Saint-Germain lock horns with Inter Miami.
Messi will face his former club in what could be his last appearance on this stage.
Elsewhere, Real Madrid vs Juventus brings Champions League pedigree, while Manchester City vs Al Hilal and Flamengo vs Bayern Munich promise fireworks.
Full FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16 schedule
Saturday, June 28
Palmeiras vs Botafogo – 5:00 pm BST
Benfica vs Chelsea – 9:00 pm BST
Sunday, June 29
PSG vs Inter Miami – 5:00 pm BST
Flamengo vs Bayern Munich – 9:00 pm BST
Monday, June 30
Inter Milan vs Fluminense – 8:00 pm BST
Manchester City vs Al Hilal – 2:00 am BST (early Tuesday, July 1)
Tuesday, July 1
Real Madrid vs Juventus – 8:00 pm BST
Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey – 2:00 am BST (early Wednesday, July 2)