The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup reached a boiling point on Monday, June 23, as teams battled for the last remaining spots in the Round of 16. With eight goals in a single game, comeback thrillers, and vintage performances from some of football’s biggest stars, fans across the globe were treated to a memorable night of world-class football.
PSG Silence Seattle to Top Group B

At a packed Lumen Field in Seattle, Paris Saint-Germain displayed composure and experience to beat Seattle Sounders 2–0. First-half goals from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Achraf Hakimi were enough to send the French giants through as group leaders.
Seattle, needing a high-margin victory to qualify, were energetic early on but couldn’t break PSG’s disciplined defense. “We knew the crowd and atmosphere would be intense,” said PSG boss Luis Enrique post-match. “But our players handled it well and got the job done.”
Griezmann Scores but Atletico Crash Out

At the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Atletico Madrid edged Brazilian side Botafogo 1–0 thanks to a late strike from Antoine Griezmann. However, the result wasn’t enough, as Botafogo qualified ahead of Atletico based on superior goal difference.
Botafogo’s disciplined defense frustrated the Spanish side for much of the match, and despite Griezmann’s goal, Atletico left the pitch disappointed. “It’s tough,” said Griezmann. “We gave everything but small margins define tournaments like this.”
Late Palmeiras Rally Denies Inter Miami Victory

In Miami Gardens, Inter Miami were moments away from topping Group A after goals from Tadeo Allende and Luis Suárez had given them a 2–0 lead. But Palmeiras fought back, with late goals from Paulinho (80’) and Mauricio (87’) earning a crucial 2–2 draw.
Though the draw was frustrating for Miami fans, both clubs advanced, with Palmeiras topping the group. “Luis [Suárez] was spectacular,” said coach Gerardo Martino, “but we need to manage games better when we’re ahead.”
Eight-Goal Thriller Ends Porto and Al Ahly’s Hopes

Perhaps the most jaw-dropping match of the day came at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where FC Porto and Al Ahlyplayed out a 4–4 classic. Egyptian striker Wessam Abou Ali bagged a stunning hat-trick, but the shared points meant both sides were eliminated.
Porto led 3–1 before a flurry of goals from both sides turned the final 20 minutes into chaos. “We gave it everything, but it just wasn’t enough,” said Porto captain Pepe, in what may be his final Club World Cup appearance.
Round of 16 Fixtures Confirmed
Following Monday’s results, the Round of 16 matchups have been confirmed:
- Palmeiras vs Botafogo – June 28, Philadelphia
- Inter Miami vs PSG – June 29, Atlanta
The highly anticipated Inter Miami vs PSG fixture is expected to draw global attention as Lionel Messi faces his former club in a blockbuster clash.
As the tournament heads into the knockout phase, attention now turns to matchups featuring star-studded squads and continental giants. With top scorers emerging and underdogs still alive, the 2025 Club World Cup continues to thrill fans across the world.
“This tournament is unlike any other,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “We are seeing passion, skill, and drama at every turn—and this is just the beginning.”
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