Inter Miami CF and Seattle Sounders FC will face formidable international opponents in the FIFA 2025 Club World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025. The draw on Thursday placed these MLS teams in challenging groups alongside some of the globe’s elite soccer clubs.
Inter Miami, led by global icon Lionel Messi, will compete in Group A. They gained their spot through exceptional performance in the 2024 MLS season, where they claimed the Supporters’ Shield with a record 74 points. The team will play against Palmeiras of Brazil, FC Porto from Portugal, and Al Ahly of Egypt. Palmeiras, hailing from Sao Paulo, boasts 12 domestic titles and aims for another. Their participation is marked by their runner-up finish in the 2021 Copa Libertadores. Porto, one of Portugal’s ‘Big Three,’ is known for its success in international competitions, securing their place without previous Club World Cup appearances. Al Ahly, the seasoned Egyptian side, brings experience from nine prior tournaments and past victories over MLS teams, including the Seattle Sounders in 2022.
Seattle Sounders, in Group B, will host matches at Lumen Field against Paris Saint-Germain (France), Atlético Madrid (Spain), and Botafogo (Brazil). Seattle’s entry is a testament to their 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup win. PSG, making their first Club World Cup appearance, features star-studded line-ups with key players like Ousmane Dembélé. Atlético Madrid, a powerhouse in Spanish football, brings its tactical expertise under coach Diego Simeone. Botafogo secured its place by winning the 2024 Copa Libertadores and includes notable former MLS players, adding a unique rivalry angle to the matches.
This year’s tournament presents a blend of seasoned teams and newcomers, promising intense competition. MLS fans will witness thrilling matches as Inter Miami and Seattle Sounders take on their globally renowned rivals in this prestigious event.
The FIFA 2025 Club World Cup promises to be a landmark event, especially for Inter Miami and Seattle Sounders as they line up against world-class opponents. With the tournament taking place on home turf, these matches will be significant not only for the teams involved but also for the evolution and recognition of soccer in the United States.
