By Marta Elena Casanova
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Index
The first edition of the 32-team FIFA Club World Cup has kicked off in the United States, running through July 13. The format, with eight groups of four and the top two teams advancing, has already delivered high drama — thrilling matches, hard-fought draws, and even a few unexpected routs.
Everything that’s happened so far, with a focus on the key results and tournament progress
Inter Miami – Al Ahly 0-0: Messi is there, but it’s not enough
In their tournament debut, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami couldn’t get past a draw against Al Ahly. It was a tense match, with flashes of brilliance from the Argentine and a denied penalty for the Egyptians, who protested until the end. Goalkeeper Ustari was the standout for the hosts.
Bayern Munich – Auckland City 10-0: total domination
The match between the European champions and the semi-professional New Zealand side turned into a Bavarian showcase. Coman opened the scoring early, Olise stood out with a brace, and Bayern finished 10-0 — the biggest win in the tournament’s history.
PSG – Atletico Madrid 4-0: a statement of strength
At the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Paris Saint-Germain demolished Atletico with a clear 4-0. Fabián Ruiz and Vitinha bossed the midfield, and Lee Kang-in sealed it from the spot. PSG are already among the tournament favorites.
Palmeiras – Porto 0-0: balanced and uneventful
A tight match with few chances. Palmeiras tried to push in the second half, but Porto held firm and earned a valuable point.
Botafogo – Seattle Sounders 2-1: Tiquinho decides it
Botafogo beat the Sounders with a late goal. The Brazilians struggled in the first half but prevailed thanks to individual quality, securing three crucial group-stage points.
Chelsea – Los Angeles FC 2-0: strong debut for the Blues
With a solid performance, Chelsea beat the California side with goals from Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández. The Londoners are strong contenders for the next round, showing depth and balance.
Boca Juniors – Benfica 2-2: South American-European showdown
One of the most entertaining matches so far: Boca went 2-0 up, but Benfica fought back with goals from Di María and Otamendi. A fair draw that leaves the Bayern group wide open.
Flamengo – Esperance Tunis 2-0: Brazilian control
Overnight in Italy, Flamengo beat Espérance with total control from the first minute. Goals from De Arrascaeta and Luiz Araújo — but it was their near-80% possession that made the real difference.
Strong starts and early struggles
After the first round, Europe’s top sides look in shape: Bayern, PSG, and Chelsea impressed. Porto faltered against Palmeiras, and Atletico Madrid were overrun by the French. Flamengo and Botafogo also started well, while Inter Miami remain in limbo. Upcoming clashes like Fluminense–Borussia Dortmund and River Plate–Urawa Reds will be crucial for their groups.
By Marta Elena Casanova
