The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 quarter-final clash between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Bayern Munich promises to be a thrilling encounter at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on July 5, 2025. This blockbuster matchup pits the reigning UEFA Champions League winners, PSG, against the German giants, Bayern Munich, in a battle for a spot in the semi-finals.
Why This Match Is a Must-Watch
Picture this: PSG, fresh off their Champions League triumph, are riding high with a swagger that’s hard to ignore. Under Luis Enrique’s sharp leadership, they’ve been tearing through opponents like a hot knife through butter. In the Club World Cup, they cruised through Group B, smashing Atlético Madrid 4-0 and edging out Seattle Sounders 2-0, though they hit a bump with a 1-0 loss to Botafogo. Their round of 16 demolition of Inter Miami (4-0) showed they mean business, conceding just one goal so far.
Bayern Munich, meanwhile, aren’t here to make up the numbers. Vincent Kompany’s side has had a wild ride in Group C, thrashing Auckland City 10-0 and sneaking past Boca Juniors 2-1, but a 1-0 defeat to Benfica kept them humble. They bounced back with a 4-2 win over Flamengo, thanks to a certain Harry Kane’s lethal finishing. Bayern’s attack is firing on all cylinders, but their defense? Let’s just say it’s been a bit like a leaky boat lately.
These two have history. Bayern have won their last four clashes with PSG, including a 1-0 in the 2024-25 Champions League. But PSG’s current form makes them the team to beat, with stats gurus giving them a 57.7% shot at moving on. Expect fireworks—both teams love to press high and attack relentlessly, leading the tournament in final-third pressures (PSG: 366, Bayern: 337). This is going to be a proper slugfest.
Team Updates
PSG
Luis Enrique’s got a stacked squad, with Ousmane Dembélé back in the mix after a thigh niggle. He came off the bench against Miami and could slot into the starting XI, maybe alongside young gun Désiré Doué and Kvaratskhelia up top. Bradley Barcola’s another option after starting last match. One thing to watch: Marquinhos, Fabián Ruiz, and João Neves are a yellow card away from missing the semi-final, so they’ll need to keep their cool.
Bayern Munich
Bayern’s injury list is a bit of a headache. Alphonso Davies is out with an ACL injury, Hiroki Ito’s sidelined, and Kim Min-jae’s a long shot to play. Leroy Sané’s off to Galatasaray, and Kingsley Coman’s dealing with a minor muscle issue, though he should be fine. The good news? Jamal Musiala’s back to his brilliant best, and he’s likely to join Michael Olise and Coman in supporting Kane up front.
Probable Lineups
PSG (4-3-3)
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Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma – The Italian wall, steady as ever.
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Defenders: Achraf Hakimi, Marquinhos, Willian Pacho, Nuno Mendes – A backline that’s fast and tough.
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Midfielders: João Neves, Vitinha, Fabián Ruiz – Energy, vision, and grit in the engine room.
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Forwards: Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia – Pace and flair to burn.
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1)
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Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer – Still a legend between the sticks.
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Defenders: Konrad Laimer, Dayot Upamecano, Jonathan Tah, Josip Stanišić – A makeshift but talented back four.
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Midfielders: Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka – The heartbeat of the team.
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Forwards: Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Kingsley Coman, Harry Kane – A front line that screams danger.
Predictions
This one’s tough to call. PSG’s clicking like a well-oiled machine, but Bayern’s never-say-die attitude and knack for big moments make them a threat. The stats nerds say PSG have a 45.6% chance of winning in 90 minutes, with Bayern at 28.7% and a 25.7% chance of extra time. Both teams love to score—PSG with 10 goals, Bayern with 16 in the tournament—so don’t be shocked if the net ripples a few times.
We are going out on a limb: PSG 3-2 Bayern. Kvaratskhelia and Dembélé will give Bayern’s defense nightmares, but Kane’s not leaving without a fight.
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