Chelsea to Face Benfica, Flamengo Draw Bayern in FIFA Club World Cup Knockouts

The Round of 16 at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is set, with Chelsea matching up against Benfica and Flamengo set to challenge Bayern Munich. The draw promises high-stakes clashes as teams fight for a place in the quarterfinals.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Chelsea secured their knockout spot after a commanding 3-0 victory over Tunisia’s Esperance Tunis, earning them a matchup against Benfica on June 28 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Benfica, meanwhile, stunned Bayern Munich 1-0 in sweltering North Carolina heat, knocking the German champions out of top spot in their group. Andreas Schjelderup’s early finish proved decisive, with Bayern unable to convert their second-half pressure into goals even after bringing on stars Harry Kane and Michael Olise. Flamengo, who advanced from their group after drawing with LAFC, will now face Bayern in a high-profile knockout battle.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

This year’s expanded Club World Cup has already been full of surprises. Chelsea, finding form at the right moment, will be confident after a strong group stage and a convincing win over Esperance. Benfica’s toppling of Bayern highlights their threat, especially after their disciplined defensive display. Bayern, despite a loaded squad, now face the challenge of regrouping against Brazil’s Flamengo, who have looked solid but will need to step up in attack. The competition has seen surprises like Auckland City holding Boca Juniors, showing smaller teams can compete on this stage. Chelsea’s matchup with Benfica is a repeat of past European clashes, adding extra intrigue.

WHAT COMES NEXT?

Chelsea and Benfica will clash on Saturday, June 28, with both sides aiming to reach the Club World Cup quarterfinals. Chelsea, now gaining momentum, sit in the knockout bracket alongside some of the tournament’s strongest teams. Benfica enter the tie high on confidence after eliminating Bayern. Meanwhile, Bayern must quickly regroup to face Flamengo, who will see this as a major chance to cause an upset. The winners of these ties will move closer to the coveted world title as the tournament heats up in the United States.