The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will take place in the United States, starting on June 14 as 32 teams will compete in the extended format. The curtains will&nbsp; be raised by Inter Miami as they face Egypt’s Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida. The final match will be held on July 13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. &nbsp;In total, 32 teams will compete in 63 matches throughout the tournament. Here are the details on the format, qualified teams, prize money and venues for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 –&nbsp;<h2>FIFA Club World Cup 2025&nbsp;Format</h2><ul><li>A group stage composed of eight groups of four teams per group playing in a single-game round-robin format.</li><li>The top two teams per group progress to the round of 16.</li><li>A direct single-match knockout stage from the round of 16 to the final.</li><li>No third-place play-off.</li></ul><h2>Qualified Teams</h2>Group A:&nbsp;SE Palmeiras (BRA), FC Porto (POR), Al Ahly FC (EGY), Inter Miami CF (USA)Group B:&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), Atlético de Madrid (ESP), Botafogo (BRA), Seattle Sounders FC (USA)Group C:&nbsp;FC Bayern München (GER), Auckland City FC (NZL), CA Boca Juniors (ARG), SL Benfica (POR)Group D:&nbsp;CR Flamengo (BRA), Espérance Sportive de Tunis (TUN), Chelsea FC (ENG), Los Angeles FC (USA)Group E:&nbsp;CA River Plate (ARG), Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN), CF Monterrey (MEX), FC Internazionale Milano (ITA)Group F:&nbsp;Fluminense FC (BRA), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Ulsan HD (KOR), Mamelodi Sundowns FC (RSA)Group G:&nbsp;Manchester City (ENG), Wydad AC (MAR), Al Ain FC (UAE), Juventus FC (ITA)Group H:&nbsp;Real Madrid C. F. (ESP), Al Hilal (KSA), CF Pachuca (MEX), FC Salzburg (AUT)<h2>Prize Money&nbsp;</h2><ul><li>FIFA Club World Cup 2025 winners to earn up to 125 USD million.</li><li>USD 1 billion prize money to 32 participating clubs.</li></ul><h2>Venues&nbsp;</h2>Atlanta&nbsp;– Mercedes-Benz StadiumCharlotte&nbsp;– Bank of America StadiumCincinnati&nbsp;– TQL StadiumLos Angeles&nbsp;– Rose Bowl StadiumMiami&nbsp;– Hard Rock StadiumNashville&nbsp;– GEODIS ParkNew York-New Jersey&nbsp;– MetLife StadiumOrlando&nbsp;– Camping World StadiumOrlando&nbsp;– Inter&amp;Co StadiumPhiladelphia&nbsp;– Lincoln Financial FieldSeattle&nbsp;– Lumen FieldWashington, DC&nbsp;– Audi Field&nbsp;<h2>Live Streaming Details</h2>DAZN, the world’s leading sports entertainment platform, has been confirmed as the exclusive global broadcaster of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.&nbsp;

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will take place in the United States, starting on June 14 as 32 teams will compete in the extended format. 

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will take place in the United States, starting on June 14 as 32 teams will compete in the extended format. The curtains will be raised by Inter Miami as they face Egypt’s Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida. The final match will be held on July 13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. In total, 32 teams will compete in 63 matches throughout the tournament. Here are the details on the format, qualified teams, prize money and venues for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 – FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Format A group stage composed of eight groups of four teams per group playing in a single-game round-robin format. The top two teams per group progress to the round of 16. A direct single-match knockout stage from the round of 16 to the final. No third-place play-off. Qualified Teams Group A: SE Palmeiras (BRA), FC Porto (POR), Al Ahly FC (EGY), Inter Miami CF (USA) Group B: Paris Saint-Germain (FRA), Atlético de Madrid (ESP), Botafogo (BRA), Seattle Sounders FC (USA) Group C: FC Bayern München (GER), Auckland City FC (NZL), CA Boca Juniors (ARG), SL Benfica (POR) Group D: CR Flamengo (BRA), Espérance Sportive de Tunis (TUN), Chelsea FC (ENG), Los Angeles FC (USA) Group E: CA River Plate (ARG), Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN), CF Monterrey (MEX), FC Internazionale Milano (ITA) Group F: Fluminense FC (BRA), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Ulsan HD (KOR), Mamelodi Sundowns FC (RSA) Group G: Manchester City (ENG), Wydad AC (MAR), Al Ain FC (UAE), Juventus FC (ITA) Group H: Real Madrid C. F. (ESP), Al Hilal (KSA), CF Pachuca (MEX), FC Salzburg (AUT) Prize Money FIFA Club World Cup 2025 winners to earn up to 125 USD million. USD 1 billion prize money to 32 participating clubs. Venues Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium Charlotte – Bank of America Stadium Cincinnati – TQL Stadium Los Angeles – Rose Bowl Stadium Miami – Hard Rock Stadium Nashville – GEODIS Park New York-New Jersey – MetLife Stadium Orlando – Camping World Stadium Orlando – Inter&Co Stadium Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field Seattle – Lumen Field Washington, DC – Audi Field Live Streaming Details DAZN, the world’s leading sports entertainment platform, has been confirmed as the exclusive global broadcaster of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025.

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will take place in the United States, starting on June 14 as 32 teams will compete in the extended format.&nbsp;

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: All you need to know about format, prize money, venues, qualified teams and other details

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he would not play in the upcoming Club World Cup on Saturday, dismissing rumours he was set to transfer to one of the participating clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final against Spain in Munich, the Portugal captain said suggestions he was set to take part in the newly expanded competition were wide of the mark.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-cristiano-ronaldo-backs-champions-league-winner-to-bag-coveted-ballon-d-or-award-psg-inter-milan-ousmane-dembele-1749299192325">Ronaldo backs Champions League winner to bag coveted Ballon d’Or</a>&nbsp;"I will not be at the Club World Cup," the Portugal veteran said, but added he had "been contacted" by several participating teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June.&nbsp;In May, the Portuguese posted on social media "the chapter is over" as reports emerged he could switch to another club, potentially Saudi side Al Hilal, one of the teams who will be at the tournament in the United States in June.&nbsp;Ronaldo said he was not interested in making a short-term decision which would allow him to play in the competition.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-ange-postecoglou-waves-goodbye-to-tottenham-fans-pens-my-overriding-emotion-is-one-of-pride-1749273417387">Ange Postecoglou waves goodbye to Tottenham Hotspur fans, pens ‘my overriding emotion is one of pride</a>&nbsp;"Some teams reached out to me. Some made sense and others did not, but you can't try and do everything, you can't catch every ball."&nbsp;The forward said the decision on his future was "almost final".&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Portuguese great Cristiano Ronaldo drops bombshell on his Club World Cup availability

Cristiano Ronaldo confirmed he would not play in the upcoming Club World Cup on Saturday, dismissing rumours he was set to transfer to one of the participating clubs. Speaking ahead of Sunday's Nations League final against Spain in Munich, the Portugal captain said suggestions he was set to take part in the newly expanded competition were wide of the mark. Also read | Ronaldo backs Champions League winner to bag coveted Ballon d’Or "I will not be at the Club World Cup," the Portugal veteran said, but added he had "been contacted" by several participating teams. Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June. In May, the Portuguese posted on social media "the chapter is over" as reports emerged he could switch to another club, potentially Saudi side Al Hilal, one of the teams who will be at the tournament in the United States in June. Ronaldo said he was not interested in making a short-term decision which would allow him to play in the competition. Also read | Ange Postecoglou waves goodbye to Tottenham Hotspur fans, pens ‘my overriding emotion is one of pride "Some teams reached out to me. Some made sense and others did not, but you can't try and do everything, you can't catch every ball." The forward said the decision on his future was "almost final". Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Ronaldo came into the Nations League in Germany amid swirling doubts about his future at club level, with the veteran's contract at Saudi side Al-Nassr set to expire at the end of June.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will kick off FIFA's new 32-team Club World Cup when the Major League Soccer side take on Egypt's Al Ahly in the June 15 opener, the draw for the tournament revealed on Thursday.

Brazilian team Palmeiras and Portugal's Porto complete Group A alongside Argentina World Cup winner Messi, whose Miami team were handed a spot by FIFA after finishing top of the regular season standings in MLS.

Messi's former Barcelona team-mate, Brazilian Neymar, will have a reunion with La Liga rivals and European champions Real Madrid in Group H.

Twelve European clubs will feature in the tournament with Manchester City facing Juventus in Group G of a tournament which FIFA president Gianni Infantino said would "start a new era in club football".

Paris Saint-Germain were drawn in a tough group with Atletico Madrid, Copa Libertadores winners Botafogo of Brazil and Seattle Sounders.

FIFA has had to deal with some scepticism over the need for the tournament and the chances of it capturing the imagination of fans but there was plenty of support for the competition among those at the draw.

Club officials and former players gathered for Thursday's draw and US President-elect Donald Trump sent his best wishes in a video message before the ceremony, which took place during a 90-minute live broadcast from a television studio in Miami.

"The event is going to be incredible," said Trump in his message where he praised Infantino as a "winner".

"We've known each other a long time and I'm so honoured to have this kind of relationship because soccer is going through the roof as everyone knows," he added.

The USA will co-host the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-202425-rohit-sharma-returns-to-lead-team-india-in-adelaide-ravi-ashwin-shubman-gill-back-in-playing-xi-781883">BGT 2024/25: Rohit Sharma returns to lead Team India in Adelaide; Ravi Ashwin, Shubman Gill back in Playing XI</a>

<h2>Clubs supportive</h2>

Trump's daughter Ivanka took part in the draw which was presented by former Juventus and Italy forward Alessandro Del Piero and featured celebrities such as model Adriana Lima.

The final of the tournament will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13.

FIFA had struggled to find sponsors and broadcasters for the new tournament but on Wednesday announced a global deal with streaming company DAZN, who will show the games for free.

The world governing body has faced opposition from some in the game over the new tournament.

FIFpro and the European Leagues body filed a joint complaint to the European Commission against FIFA over the introduction of the tournament into the international match calendar.

Opponents of the new tournament have said it adds further congestion to an already crowded schedule and increases the workload of players.

But there was little but backing for the competition from the clubs and leagues who will be represented next year.

"We are very supportive of this tournament, We are excited," said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who is also chairman of the European Clubs Association.

Al-Khelaifi said the tournament was a better way for clubs to perform in the USA than in pre-season friendly tours and would help PSG to spread their brand.

There was also support from Don Garber, commissioner of Major League Soccer and vice-chair of the World Leagues Association.

"The tournament took time to generate all the interest that you are seeing here today," said the American.

"Good things come to those that sort of put in the work and FIFA put in the work and we're going to have lots of our stadiums involved,&nbsp;

"There are 100 million fans who follow what we call league (club) soccer and they're going to be interested to see MLS teams and Mexican teams and see teams from all Europe, South America and the rest of the world, so I'm excited about it, I really am," added Garber.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will kick off FIFA's new 32-team Club World Cup when the Major League Soccer side take on Egypt's Al Ahly in the June 15 opener, the draw for the tournament revealed on Thursday.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will kick off FIFA's new 32-team Club World Cup when the Major League Soccer side take on Egypt's Al Ahly in the June 15 opener, the draw for the tournament revealed on Thursday. Brazilian team Palmeiras and Portugal's Porto complete Group A alongside Argentina World Cup winner Messi, whose Miami team were handed a spot by FIFA after finishing top of the regular season standings in MLS. Messi's former Barcelona team-mate, Brazilian Neymar, will have a reunion with La Liga rivals and European champions Real Madrid in Group H. Twelve European clubs will feature in the tournament with Manchester City facing Juventus in Group G of a tournament which FIFA president Gianni Infantino said would "start a new era in club football". Paris Saint-Germain were drawn in a tough group with Atletico Madrid, Copa Libertadores winners Botafogo of Brazil and Seattle Sounders. FIFA has had to deal with some scepticism over the need for the tournament and the chances of it capturing the imagination of fans but there was plenty of support for the competition among those at the draw. Club officials and former players gathered for Thursday's draw and US President-elect Donald Trump sent his best wishes in a video message before the ceremony, which took place during a 90-minute live broadcast from a television studio in Miami. "The event is going to be incredible," said Trump in his message where he praised Infantino as a "winner". "We've known each other a long time and I'm so honoured to have this kind of relationship because soccer is going through the roof as everyone knows," he added. The USA will co-host the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada. ALSO READ | BGT 2024/25: Rohit Sharma returns to lead Team India in Adelaide; Ravi Ashwin, Shubman Gill back in Playing XI Clubs supportive Trump's daughter Ivanka took part in the draw which was presented by former Juventus and Italy forward Alessandro Del Piero and featured celebrities such as model Adriana Lima. The final of the tournament will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 13. FIFA had struggled to find sponsors and broadcasters for the new tournament but on Wednesday announced a global deal with streaming company DAZN, who will show the games for free. The world governing body has faced opposition from some in the game over the new tournament. FIFpro and the European Leagues body filed a joint complaint to the European Commission against FIFA over the introduction of the tournament into the international match calendar. Opponents of the new tournament have said it adds further congestion to an already crowded schedule and increases the workload of players. But there was little but backing for the competition from the clubs and leagues who will be represented next year. "We are very supportive of this tournament, We are excited," said PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi, who is also chairman of the European Clubs Association. Al-Khelaifi said the tournament was a better way for clubs to perform in the USA than in pre-season friendly tours and would help PSG to spread their brand. There was also support from Don Garber, commissioner of Major League Soccer and vice-chair of the World Leagues Association. "The tournament took time to generate all the interest that you are seeing here today," said the American. "Good things come to those that sort of put in the work and FIFA put in the work and we're going to have lots of our stadiums involved, "There are 100 million fans who follow what we call league (club) soccer and they're going to be interested to see MLS teams and Mexican teams and see teams from all Europe, South America and the rest of the world, so I'm excited about it, I really am," added Garber. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Neymar's Al Hilal to face Real Madrid; Messi's Inter Miami take on Egypt's Al Ahly

The professional footballers' unions of England (PFA) and France (UNFP) took FIFA to court in Brussels on Thursday (May 13) to challenge the timetable "unilaterally set" by the world body, in particular its new Club World Cup in 2025.&nbsp;

Players' unions have complained that the expanded Club World Cup, due to take place in the United States in June and July next year, is an unacceptable additional burden on players.

The organisations "believe that these decisions violate the rights of players and their unions under the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights while also potentially violating EU competition law", the global professional footballers union FIFPRO said in a statement.&nbsp;

With the support of FIFPRO, UNFP and PFA have asked the Brussels Commercial Court to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union by putting forward "four questions for a preliminary ruling".

"Players and their unions have consistently highlighted the current football calendar as overloaded and unworkable", the unions said in their statement.

In early May, FIFPRO and the World Association of Football Leagues had already threatened FIFA with legal action.

The players' representatives accuse FIFA of having "continued a programme of competition expansion despite the opposition of player unions", in particular by expanding the Club World Cup from seven to 32 teams.

"The most in-demand players are now part of an endless schedule of games and competitions for club and country, with their limits constantly being pushed through expansion and the creation of new competitions," said PFA general manager Maheta Molango.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/lionel-messi-schools-kylian-mbappe-after-new-real-madrid-star-makes-absurd-euro-copa-america-comparison-731402">Also read |&nbsp;Lionel Messi schools Kylian Mbappe after new Real Madrid star makes absurd Euro-Copa America comparison</a>

The two unions point to a possible violation by FIFA of the right of European workers to "collectively bargain over their terms and conditions of employment" and their right to "healthy friendly working conditions", as provided for in European law.&nbsp;

They also cite the ECJ's ruling in the Super League case last December as evidence that FIFA is restricting competition law in a "unilateral and discretionary" manner.

FIFA has not commented, but sources close to the governing body point out that the international match calendar was signed off by its ruling Council which features representation from all continental confederations, including UEFA.

They also insist that calendar was the result of extensive consultation, and reject any suggestion that it was imposed on the football community.

The professional footballers' unions of England (PFA) and France (UNFP) took FIFA to court in Brussels on Thursday (May 13) to challenge the timetable "unilaterally set" by the world body, in particular its new Club World Cup in 2025.

The professional footballers' unions of England (PFA) and France (UNFP) took FIFA to court in Brussels on Thursday (May 13) to challenge the timetable "unilaterally set" by the world body, in particular its new Club World Cup in 2025. Players' unions have complained that the expanded Club World Cup, due to take place in the United States in June and July next year, is an unacceptable additional burden on players. The organisations "believe that these decisions violate the rights of players and their unions under the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights while also potentially violating EU competition law", the global professional footballers union FIFPRO said in a statement. With the support of FIFPRO, UNFP and PFA have asked the Brussels Commercial Court to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union by putting forward "four questions for a preliminary ruling". "Players and their unions have consistently highlighted the current football calendar as overloaded and unworkable", the unions said in their statement. In early May, FIFPRO and the World Association of Football Leagues had already threatened FIFA with legal action. The players' representatives accuse FIFA of having "continued a programme of competition expansion despite the opposition of player unions", in particular by expanding the Club World Cup from seven to 32 teams. "The most in-demand players are now part of an endless schedule of games and competitions for club and country, with their limits constantly being pushed through expansion and the creation of new competitions," said PFA general manager Maheta Molango. Also read | Lionel Messi schools Kylian Mbappe after new Real Madrid star makes absurd Euro-Copa America comparison The two unions point to a possible violation by FIFA of the right of European workers to "collectively bargain over their terms and conditions of employment" and their right to "healthy friendly working conditions", as provided for in European law. They also cite the ECJ's ruling in the Super League case last December as evidence that FIFA is restricting competition law in a "unilateral and discretionary" manner. FIFA has not commented, but sources close to the governing body point out that the international match calendar was signed off by its ruling Council which features representation from all continental confederations, including UEFA. They also insist that calendar was the result of extensive consultation, and reject any suggestion that it was imposed on the football community.

English and French footballers sue FIFA for revamped Club World Cup

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has announced that the club will not participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The refusal comes amid controversy surrounding FIFA's proposal for a revamped 32-team tournament that increases the load on players and the clubs.

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has announced that the club will not participate in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The refusal comes amid controversy surrounding FIFA's proposal for a revamped 32-team tournament that increases the load on players and the clubs. Ancelotti, who recently guided Madrid to a record-extending 15th UEFA Champions League title was speaking to Il Giornale where he made the revelation. "FIFA forgets that players and teams will not participate in the new Club World Cup," said Ancelotti. "A single Real Madrid match is worth €20 million and FIFA wants to give us that amount for the entire tournament. Negative. Like us, other clubs will refuse the invitation," he added. 🚨 Carlo Ancelotti: “FIFA Club World Cup? A single Real Madrid match is worth €20 million and they want to give us that money for the whole competition. Negative. Real Madrid, like other clubs, will REJECT the invitation.” @relevo pic.twitter.com/fWyEKTeugS — Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) June 10, 2024 × Notably, Madrid have confirmed participation in the 2024 edition which takes place in the traditional format which features the champions of each continent. Madrid will face Pachuca (CONCACAF), Al-Ain (AFC), Al-Ahly (CAF), Auckland City (OFC), and the winner of the 2024 Copa Libertadores in the tournament, scheduled for December 2024 . Madrid are the record champions of the FIFA Club World Cup, having won the tournament on five occasions (2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2022). The current holders are Manchester City. Also read | Manchester City win maiden FIFA Club World Cup What is the new FIFA Club World Cup? In December last year, FIFA unveiled the revamped Club World Cup which will take place in the United States between June 15 and July 13, 2025. The competition’s official name will be Mundial de Clubes FIFA and will feature clubs from each of the six confederations. "Clubs play a fundamental role in world football, and the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will be a major milestone in providing clubs from all confederations with a fitting stage on which to shine at the highest level of the game,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino at the time. The group stage will be composed of eight groups of four teams per group playing in a single-game round-robin format. The top two teams per group will progress to the round of 16 where a direct single-match knockout stage to the final will take place. No third-place play-off (With inputs from agencies)

Here's why record-champions Real Madrid will not play in 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

Bayern Munich on Friday announced that Serge Gnabry tore a muscle in his left thigh during the FIFA Club World Cup final. The club said the injury was confirmed following an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit.

"FC Bayern will have to do without Serge Gnabry for the foreseeable. The forward tore a muscle in his left thigh in yesterday`s 1-0 triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup final against Tigres UANL. The injury was confirmed following an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit," the club said in a statement. Gnabry has played in 28 of 32 competitive matches so far this season and scored six goals.

On Thursday, FC Bayern defeated Tigres 1-0 in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup and thus secured a historic sixth title within one year. Only FC Barcelona (in 2009) had previously achieved this feat.

During the match, Bayern were dominant for long spells and had a goal ruled out for offside in the first half, but Benjamin Pavard scored the match-winner early in the second half, firing his side to the title.

Expressing elation over the historic feat, Bayern Munich`s Robert Lewandowski had said that now they have the "six-pack" as it was their sixth title in a year.

"We just wanted to win. Now we have the six-pack, that`s a big story, not only for Bayern Munich but for all of football. The way we played, that will keep for a long, long time," the club`s official website had quoted Lewandowski as saying.&nbsp;

Bayern Munich on Friday announced that Serge Gnabry tore a muscle in his left thigh during the FIFA Club World Cup final. The club said the injury was confirmed following an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit.

Bayern Munich on Friday announced that Serge Gnabry tore a muscle in his left thigh during the FIFA Club World Cup final. The club said the injury was confirmed following an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit. "FC Bayern will have to do without Serge Gnabry for the foreseeable. The forward tore a muscle in his left thigh in yesterday`s 1-0 triumph in the FIFA Club World Cup final against Tigres UANL. The injury was confirmed following an examination by the FC Bayern medical unit," the club said in a statement. Gnabry has played in 28 of 32 competitive matches so far this season and scored six goals. On Thursday, FC Bayern defeated Tigres 1-0 in the final of the FIFA Club World Cup and thus secured a historic sixth title within one year. Only FC Barcelona (in 2009) had previously achieved this feat. During the match, Bayern were dominant for long spells and had a goal ruled out for offside in the first half, but Benjamin Pavard scored the match-winner early in the second half, firing his side to the title. Expressing elation over the historic feat, Bayern Munich`s Robert Lewandowski had said that now they have the "six-pack" as it was their sixth title in a year. "We just wanted to win. Now we have the six-pack, that`s a big story, not only for Bayern Munich but for all of football. The way we played, that will keep for a long, long time," the club`s official website had quoted Lewandowski as saying.

Bayern Munich suffer blow as Gnabry out with thigh muscle tear

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world,"&nbsp;Infaninto&nbsp;told AFP.&nbsp;

In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from&nbsp;COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December.&nbsp;

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A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year.&nbsp;However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date.&nbsp;

An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin.&nbsp;

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"(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway.&nbsp;

"If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday said that he strongly backs an expanded Club World Cup in a bid to boost international competitions between clubs. "We are focusing on world competition in the Club World Cup, for example, to have not only one club present from each confederation, but more participation because we need to boost club football all over the world," Infaninto told AFP. In the year 2021, there are two Club World Cups being held with Qatar currently hosting the ongoing edition that was delayed from COVID-19 hit 2020. The second Club World Cup tournament for the year 2021 is scheduled to be held in Japan in December. ALSO READ: Football bosses demand Twitter, Facebook to tackle 'havens of abuse' A revamped 24-team Club World Cup, including eight clubs from Europe, was due to be held in China this year. However, the deferment of Euro 2020 and Copa America tournaments, the expanded edition of the Club World Cup will not commence until a later date. An enlarged tournament could help address growing calls for "super leagues" of top regional and global clubs -- leading European clubs are believed to be keen to create a European Super League. Infantino did not say on Thursday when the new Club World Cup format might begin. ALSO READ: Manchester City see off Swansea to rack up record 15th straight win "(But) we have already decided that the new Club World Cup will be featuring 24 teams from all different continents," he told AFP. "We will still have to find the right slot for the new Club World Cup with 24 teams. It's obviously not an easy challenge in this period where everything is congested anyway. "If we need to wait one year longer then we'll do that."

FIFA focusing on enlarged Club World Cup, says Gianni Infantino

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament.

Bayern qualified after their triumph in last season's UEFA Champions League, the crowning moment of a 2020 which also saw Hansi Flick's team win the Bundesliga, German Cup, UEFA Super Cup and German Super Cup.

Now they are hoping to become the eighth consecutive European winner of the Club World Cup, a run that started when Bayern themselves lifted the trophy in Morocco in 2013.

If they do so they can -- albeit with the caveat that this competition is being played in a different calendar year -- match the achievement of Pep Guardiola's Barcelona, who won six trophies in 2009.

"That would probably be the icing on the cake, but it's obviously going to be a challenge," said Flick.

"It's always the case at Bayern Munich that you want to have the most successful season possible and after the treble, you're obviously looking at the FIFA Club World Cup."

Bayern have named all the big guns, from Manuel Neuer to Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowski, in their squad ahead of their entrance in the semi-final next Monday against either African champions Al Ahly or host nation representative Al Duhail.

<h2>- Final against Palmeiras? -</h2>

The expectation is that they will go through to the February 11 final and likely face Palmeiras, with the Brazilians fresh from winning the Copa Libertadores last weekend.

Palmeiras play their semi-final on Sunday against either Tigres of Mexico, the CONCACAF Champions League winner, or Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, who are back in Qatar after winning the Asian Champions League there in December.

Tigres and Ulsan Hyundai kick the tournament off on Thursday when they meet at the Ahmad Bin Ali stadium in Al Rayyan, on the outskirts of Doha.

<h2>- Muted atmosphere, but fans allowed in -</h2>

The mood in Doha is muted compared to the last Club World Cup in December 2019, which saw thousands of supporters of Liverpool and Brazilian giants Flamengo descend on the normally staid city.

This time, the tournament kicks off with Qatar seeing a spike in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions, and local authorities have taken a swathe of measures including banning travelling fans from outside the country.

New cases over the last week jumped by a third compared to the week before, according to official data, while hospital admissions due to Covid-19 are up 85 percent in the past month, according to the country's Ministry of Public Health.

As of Monday, 249 people had died from the virus while the overall case load has topped 151,000 in a country with a population of under three million.

<h2>- Obligatory testing -</h2>

However&nbsp;Abdulwahab al-Musleh, sports affairs adviser to Qatar's health ministry, claimed ahead of the tournament that fans faced a negligible risk of contracting the virus because of the requirement for them to present a negative test ahead of each match.

That comes after the experience of the domestic Emir of Qatar Cup final in December, where all 20,000 fans who attended the half-capacity match were required to present a negative test.

And so while sporting events across much of the world are currently going ahead behind closed doors, a limited number of spectators will be allowed inside Club World Cup games.

Spectator numbers are capped at 30 percent of capacity at each of the two 40,000-seat venues. Social distancing, mask wearing and use of Qatar's contact tracing app will be mandatory.

Meanwhile, following a cluster of cases in the Saudi Al-Hilal team during the AFC Champions League late last year, Musleh said "several measures to prevent that recurring" had been taken.

The pandemic has already directly impacted the tournament though as Oceania champions Auckland City withdrew due to quarantine measures required by the New Zealand authorities.

Despite the spectre of coronavirus, the tournament remains a useful test event for FIFA and organisers ahead of the fast-approaching 2022 World Cup in the country.

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament.

Bayern Munich are the overwhelming favourites to cap a remarkable last year as they head to Qatar for the delayed FIFA Club World Cup, taking place later than scheduled because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic which overshadows the tournament. Bayern qualified after their triumph in last season's UEFA Champions League, the crowning moment of a 2020 which also saw Hansi Flick's team win the Bundesliga, German Cup, UEFA Super Cup and German Super Cup. Now they are hoping to become the eighth consecutive European winner of the Club World Cup, a run that started when Bayern themselves lifted the trophy in Morocco in 2013. If they do so they can -- albeit with the caveat that this competition is being played in a different calendar year -- match the achievement of Pep Guardiola's Barcelona, who won six trophies in 2009. "That would probably be the icing on the cake, but it's obviously going to be a challenge," said Flick. "It's always the case at Bayern Munich that you want to have the most successful season possible and after the treble, you're obviously looking at the FIFA Club World Cup." Bayern have named all the big guns, from Manuel Neuer to Thomas Mueller and Robert Lewandowski, in their squad ahead of their entrance in the semi-final next Monday against either African champions Al Ahly or host nation representative Al Duhail. - Final against Palmeiras? - The expectation is that they will go through to the February 11 final and likely face Palmeiras, with the Brazilians fresh from winning the Copa Libertadores last weekend. Palmeiras play their semi-final on Sunday against either Tigres of Mexico, the CONCACAF Champions League winner, or Ulsan Hyundai of South Korea, who are back in Qatar after winning the Asian Champions League there in December. Tigres and Ulsan Hyundai kick the tournament off on Thursday when they meet at the Ahmad Bin Ali stadium in Al Rayyan, on the outskirts of Doha. - Muted atmosphere, but fans allowed in - The mood in Doha is muted compared to the last Club World Cup in December 2019, which saw thousands of supporters of Liverpool and Brazilian giants Flamengo descend on the normally staid city. This time, the tournament kicks off with Qatar seeing a spike in coronavirus cases and hospital admissions, and local authorities have taken a swathe of measures including banning travelling fans from outside the country. New cases over the last week jumped by a third compared to the week before, according to official data, while hospital admissions due to Covid-19 are up 85 percent in the past month, according to the country's Ministry of Public Health. As of Monday, 249 people had died from the virus while the overall case load has topped 151,000 in a country with a population of under three million. - Obligatory testing - However Abdulwahab al-Musleh, sports affairs adviser to Qatar's health ministry, claimed ahead of the tournament that fans faced a negligible risk of contracting the virus because of the requirement for them to present a negative test ahead of each match. That comes after the experience of the domestic Emir of Qatar Cup final in December, where all 20,000 fans who attended the half-capacity match were required to present a negative test. And so while sporting events across much of the world are currently going ahead behind closed doors, a limited number of spectators will be allowed inside Club World Cup games. Spectator numbers are capped at 30 percent of capacity at each of the two 40,000-seat venues. Social distancing, mask wearing and use of Qatar's contact tracing app will be mandatory. Meanwhile, following a cluster of cases in the Saudi Al-Hilal team during the AFC Champions League late last year, Musleh said "several measures to prevent that recurring" had been taken. The pandemic has already directly impacted the tournament though as Oceania champions Auckland City withdrew due to quarantine measures required by the New Zealand authorities. Despite the spectre of coronavirus, the tournament remains a useful test event for FIFA and organisers ahead of the fast-approaching 2022 World Cup in the country.

Covid tests for fans, limited crowds and Bayern favourites - Club World Cup kicks off in Qatar

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../fifa-votes-for-new-club-world-cup-euro-clubs- confirm-boycott-203684">&nbsp;FIFA Club World Cup</a>&nbsp;to begin on June 17 and the final to take place&nbsp;on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year&nbsp;that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup.

The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing&nbsp;the current seven-team annual format.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Also Read:&nbsp;Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup</a>

The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the&nbsp;Club World Cup match.&nbsp;

China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA).

China's football association has proposed the 18th edition of FIFA Club World Cup to begin on June 17 and the final to take place on July 4. The proposal was sent to the FIFA Council by the Chinese Football Association (CFA). FIFA president Gianni Infantino had announced in October last year that China will hold the inaugural expanded version of the 2021 Club World Cup. The new Club World Cup will be held every four years featuring 24 league teams across the globe replacing the current seven-team annual format. Also Read: Liverpool end sensational year as Roberto Firmino's extra-time goal seals Club World Cup The finals and the opening match is supposed to be held in Shanghai. Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Shenyang, Jinan, Hangzhou and Dalian are among the other cities selected to host the Club World Cup match. China's state-run media Xinhua quoting China football Association source said the proposals have not yet been approved by FIFA.

China proposes Club World Cup to be held in June 17  next year; FIFA to decide

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation.

However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December&nbsp;16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-to-inaugurate-new-2022-stadium-during-club-world-cup-252855">FIFA Club World Cup</a>.

"We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it.

"FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously.

"If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now."

Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday.

"We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December. Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation. However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December 16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the FIFA Club World Cup. "We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it. "FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously. "If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now." Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday. "We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Football: Juergen Klopp may pull Liverpool out of League Cup over fixture pile-up

World Cup-winning German midfielder Toni Kroos extended his contract with the Spanish giants Real Madrid for two years until 2022. His contract was to expire in 2020.&nbsp;

&quot;Real Madrid and Toni Kroos have agreed on the extension of the contract which will keep the player at the club until June 30, 2022,&quot; Real said in a statement.

Kroos had joined the club from Bayern Munich on a six-year deal in 2014 for 25 million euros (27.5 million dollars).&nbsp;

The 26-year-old has made 108 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring four goals. Part of Germany&#39;s 2014 World Cup-winning team, Kroos has established himself as a favourite in the midfield.&nbsp;

He was helped the club win the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in May. He has also won two UEFA Super Cups and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time in Spain.

(WION with inputs from agencies)

The midfielder, who had signed a six-year contract with Real Madrid in 2014, has decided to stay on with the club for another two years

World Cup-winning German midfielder Toni Kroos extended his contract with the Spanish giants Real Madrid for two years until 2022. His contract was to expire in 2020. "Real Madrid and Toni Kroos have agreed on the extension of the contract which will keep the player at the club until June 30, 2022," Real said in a statement. Kroos had joined the club from Bayern Munich on a six-year deal in 2014 for 25 million euros (27.5 million dollars). The 26-year-old has made 108 appearances for Real Madrid, scoring four goals. Part of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning team, Kroos has established himself as a favourite in the midfield. He was helped the club win the Champions League final against Atletico Madrid in May. He has also won two UEFA Super Cups and the FIFA Club World Cup during his time in Spain. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Germany's Kroos extends Real Madrid contract until 2022

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