The FIFA Club World Cup 2025, set to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13, is shaping up to be a historic event. With an expanded 32-team format, a $1 billion prize pool, and top clubs from every continent, the tournament promises intense competition. But which team is the favorite to lift the trophy? Let’s dive into the top contenders, their strengths, and why they’re tipped for success.
Overview of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
The 2025 edition marks a significant transformation for the FIFA Club World Cup. Unlike the previous seven-team format, this year’s tournament features 32 clubs, including champions from the last four years of continental competitions and top-ranked teams from confederations like UEFA, CONMEBOL, AFC, CAF, CONCACAF, and OFC. Hosted across 12 U.S. stadiums, with the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, the tournament is a prelude to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With a massive prize pool—up to $125 million for the winner—clubs are expected to field their strongest squads, making this one of the most competitive editions yet.
Top Favorites to Win the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Based on recent form, squad quality, and predictive models like the Opta supercomputer, several teams stand out as favorites. Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders:
1. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)
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Why They’re Favorites: PSG enters the tournament as the 2024 UEFA Champions League winners, having thrashed Inter Milan 5-0 in the final. The Opta supercomputer gives them an 18.5% chance of winning, the highest among all teams. Their attacking trio of Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Désiré Doué is in top form, and their momentum from European success makes them a formidable force.
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Key Players: Ousmane Dembélé’s pace and creativity, combined with Désiré Doué’s flair, make PSG a nightmare for defenders.
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Challenges: Drawn in Group B with Atlético Madrid, PSG faces a tough group stage. However, their projected path to the quarterfinals is favorable, with a 75.4% chance of reaching the last eight.
2. Real Madrid
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Why They’re Favorites: With a record five Club World Cup titles, Real Madrid is a powerhouse. Despite an underwhelming 2024–25 La Liga campaign, their squad, led by Kylian Mbappé, is packed with firepower.
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Key Players: Kylian Mbappé’s historic debut season at Real Madrid and the emergence of young talent like Franco Mastantuono (a potential transfer target) add depth.
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Challenges: A tough group with Bayern Munich could test their resolve, but their experience in high-stakes tournaments gives them an edge.
3. Manchester City
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Why They’re Favorites: As defending champions (2023 Club World Cup winners), Manchester City boasts a strong squad despite a disappointing 2024–25 Premier League season. The return of 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri, named Player of the Tournament in 2023, bolsters their chances. Opta gives them a 17.8% chance of winning.
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Key Players: Rodri’s midfield dominance and Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring prowess make City a threat.
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Challenges: Drawn with Juventus, City must navigate a competitive group, but their depth and Pep Guardiola’s tactical expertise make them a top contender.
Final Prediction
While PSG holds a slight edge due to their recent Champions League dominance, Real Madrid’s experience and Manchester City’s depth make this a three-horse race. Chelsea and Inter Milan could upset the odds, but a European team is likely to prevail. For a bold prediction, keep an eye on Botafogo as a potential dark horse to reach the semifinals.
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