The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup heats up this week as two blockbuster clashes highlight the action in Groups C and D. European giants Bayern Munich and Chelsea face off against South American powerhouses Boca Juniors and Flamengo, respectively, in matches that could define the road to the knockout rounds.
Group C: Bayern Look to Seal Knockout Spot, Boca Fight for Survival
In their opening fixture, Bayern Munich demolished Oceania champions Auckland City 10-0, making an early statement of intent. Boca Juniors, meanwhile, were held to a 2-2 draw by Benfica and now find themselves in a must-win situation against the German champions.
Bayern’s squad has finally come together in full force after several players arrived late in the U.S., bolstering an already stacked team. While a few injury concerns remain, including Musiala, Upamecano, and Kim Min-jae, key figures such as Harry Kane, Leroy Sané, Thomas Müller, Kingsley Coman, and new signing Michael Olise are all expected to start. Kane, who netted 38 goals in 48 matches last season, remains Bayern’s primary weapon as they aim to secure early qualification to the previous 16.
Boca, on the other hand, are sweating over the fitness of veteran striker and captain Edinson Cavani, who may have to play through injury. Should he be unavailable, Uruguayan forward Miguel Merentiel will be tasked with leading the line. Merentiel enters the match in fine form, having registered 2 goals and 2 assists in his last 3 outings. Boca will also lean on key players such as Palacios, Herrera, Rojo, and Delgado to mount a challenge.
These two clubs have met before at the Club World Cup, in 2001, Bayern narrowly edged Boca 1-0 after extra time. This rematch promises to reignite that old rivalry.
In the other Group C fixture, Benfica are expected to cruise past a battered Auckland City side, which could set up a high-stakes showdown in the group’s final round.
Group D: Chelsea Brace for High-Flying Flamengo
In Group D, 2021 Club World Cup winners Chelsea will face Brazilian giants Flamengo in what promises to be a thrilling contest. Both sides won their opening games 2-0, Chelsea over LAFC and Flamengo over Tunisia’s ES Tunis, setting the stage for a potential group-deciding encounter.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is taking no chances, naming his strongest lineup as the Blues look to keep momentum going. Raheem Sterling, Cole Palmer, Christopher Nkunku, and Conor Gallagher have all impressed in recent games, while defenders like Axel Disasi and Levi Colwill offer defensive stability.
But Flamengo arrive with serious momentum. The Rio-based side currently tops the Brazilian Serie A and is unbeaten in their last 16 matches (15 wins, 1 draw). Adding more intrigue to the clash, Flamengo’s squad includes two former Chelsea men: manager Filipe Luís, once a left-back at Stamford Bridge, and midfielder Willian Borges da Silva, who made over 200 appearances for the Blues. Their insider knowledge could offer Flamengo a tactical edge.
Up front, Flamengo boasts the potent duo of Gabriel Barbosa and Pedro, supported by a skilful and dynamic midfield. Their South American style, built on quick transitions and technical flair, could test Chelsea’s discipline and shape.
These two matchups offer more than just points; they represent a clash of footballing philosophies. Bayern and Chelsea carry the weight of European expectations, while Boca and Flamengo play with the pride and fire of South American tradition.
With knockout qualification on the line, every pass, every tackle, and every goal could change the tournament’s trajectory. The stage is set, now, it’s time for the giants to collide.
