The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is just around the corner, promising a thrilling month of football action in the United States. This year's edition marks a significant revamp, expanding from seven teams to a whopping 32, and shifting to a quadrennial format. Get ready for 63 matches played over 29 days, culminating on July 15th.
New Format and Qualification
The expanded format divides the 32 teams into eight groups of four. Qualifying teams represent all six international football confederations: Asia (AFC), Africa (CAF), North and Central America (CONCACAF), South America (CONMEBOL), Oceania (OFC), and Europe (UEFA). Most spots were awarded to the winners of each confederation's equivalent of the UEFA Champions League from 2020-21 to 2023-24. UEFA boasts the most representation with 12 teams, determined by Champions League performance over the qualifying period.
European Giants Confirmed
Teams like Chelsea, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain have already secured their places. However, only two clubs per country can participate, except if more win their confederation's top club competition. Even Austrian side Red Bull Salzburg will be there, albeit as FC Salzburg due to sponsorship regulations.
Ulsan's Ambitious Goal
South Korean side Ulsan HD are set to make their Club World Cup debut, drawn into a group with Mamelodi Sundowns, Borussia Dortmund, and Fluminense. Veteran defender Kim Young-gwon revealed the team's clear objective: to advance from the group stage. "It's an honour to be here because the best clubs in the world are competing to determine the champion,” Young-gwon told FIFA.com. He acknowledges the difficulty but remains optimistic: "There’s no rule that says we can’t win. We’ll need to discuss with the coaching staff how to approach the game when facing strong teams, and we’ll have to be ready to play good matches."
Sundowns' Challenge
Mamelodi Sundowns will face a stern test against Ulsan and the other group opponents. The tournament offers a global stage to showcase South African football, and Sundowns will be eager to make a lasting impression.