2 Jul at 11:30 am

2025 Club World Cup reaches quarter-finals: Inter and Juventus out

By Marta Elena Casanova

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There’s a fine line between ambition and reality — and at the 2025 Club World Cup, Italy learned just how sharp that line can be. Inter and Juventus, two of the most decorated Italian clubs, exited the tournament in the round of 16. What was supposed to be a moment of global redemption for Italian football turned into a bitter reality check: we’re not as competitive as we like to believe.

Round of 16 verdicts

Fluminense 2‑0 Inter

This was one of the most anticipated matchups. Inter, Champions League finalist, faced Fluminense, the South American champions. But by the final whistle, the story was clear: the Brazilians had more hunger, more legs, and more ideas. Germán Cano scored after just three minutes — a goal that immediately knocked the wind out of Inzaghi’s side. Inter attempted a response through Lautaro and Barella, but their play was sterile and predictable. In stoppage time, Hércules sealed it with the second goal. Inter, now coached by Chivu, leave the tournament filled with regret — just another chapter in a disappointing season.

Real Madrid 1‑0 Juventus

Juventus exited with less noise, but equal frustration. Against a far-from-brilliant Real Madrid side, the Bianconeri delivered a tidy yet toothless performance. Gonzalo García’s goal in the 54th minute was the lone highlight in a tight, tactical match where Tudor’s side had hoped to take it to penalties. Juve had invested heavily in this Club World Cup as a chance to regain international relevance — but left without making an impact.

Manchester City 3‑4 Al-Hilal: Saudi shock

The real shock of these round-of-16 matches came from Orlando: Guardiola’s Manchester City was eliminated in extra time by Simone Inzaghi’s Al-Hilal. It ended 4‑3 after an epic battle. Marcos Leonardo, a talent who blossomed in Arabia, scored twice and became a national hero. The Premier League loses a key contender in the competition, while Saudi football raises its voice. It’s not just about the market: there’s real football being played.

Borussia Dortmund 2‑1 Monterrey: Guirassy leads the charge

In the last round-of-16 clash, Borussia Dortmund relied on their greater experience to beat Monterrey 2‑1. Serhou Guirassy was the star, scoring both goals. The Germans move into the quarter-finals, where they’ll face Real Madrid in a European showdown with plenty of fire.

Italy’s bitter reflection

The early exits of Inter and Juventus go beyond the scoreboard: they are a harsh snapshot of Italian football’s current state. The July timing — outside Serie A’s rhythm — may have played a role, but excuses aren’t enough. Better investments, new sporting culture, and forward-thinking management are urgently needed. The gap with South American and Arab football is no longer just financial — it’s technical and strategic.