2025 Membership World Cup preview: What to learn about all 32 groups

After months of hype, pomp and circumstance, it is lastly right here! The 2025 FIFA Membership World Cup kicks off this weekend throughout the U.S., with the opener on Saturday evening in Miami as Inter Miami CF host Al Ahly to get issues underway. The ten-day switch window designed to assist CWC members workers up for motion has closed, with a number of new stars set to debut for Actual Madrid (Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Hujisen), Manchester Metropolis (Rayan Ait-Nouri, Tijjani Reijnders, Rayan Cherki) and Chelsea (Liam Delap), and the motion comes thick and quick, with 63 video games over the subsequent month.

Whereas the sphere is loaded with European superpowers like Madrid, Metropolis, Juventus, Chelsea and Inter Milan, all of the world’s high golf equipment on different continents are additionally participating, from Argentinian duo Boca Juniors and River Plate to Brazil’s Botafogo, winners of the 2024 Copa Libertadores, and Al Ahly, the 10-time Membership World Cup members from Egypt.

So, forward of the motion, take into account this your useful information to all of the groups, how they acquired right here, and what we predict we’ll do on this competitors.

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GROUP A

Al Ahly

The place they play: Egyptian Premier League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of 2020-21 CAF Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? As 12-time African champions and CAF’s African Membership of the twentieth Century, Al Ahly are used to being the “huge fish” in Egypt and Africa. They go into each match aiming for silverware. They’ve nearly 120 years of historical past, nonetheless, the laborious realities of expertise and assets imply they may battle in reaching the match’s knockout rounds.

Although they won’t have the person expertise of Palmeiras’ Estevao, FC Porto’s Samu Aghehowa, or (in fact) Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi in Group A, they’ve intensive expertise navigating main tournaments, and Zizo, Mahmoud Trézéguet and Achraf Bencharki ought to enable them to pack a punch. Incoming head coach Jose Riveiro, who made South African giants Orlando Pirates aggressive once more with a sexy front-foot model, has recognized a berth within the spherical of 16 as Al Ahly’s match goal.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Ahly have been as soon as a powerful native image of resistance in opposition to the British through the colonization of Egypt. A century later, the membership’s supporters, the Ultras Ahlawy, performed a job within the escalation of the Egyptian revolution and notably, the Tahrir Sq. demonstrations that led to the top of President Hosni Mubarak’s reign.

Our prediction: If Ahly can play spoilers after they face Inter Miami and Lionel Messi in Florida within the match opener Saturday evening, it might set them up for shock development to the knockouts. Porto and Palmeiras — fourth within the Brasileirao — aren’t the strongest opponents, however Ahly stay outsiders to advance. — Ed Dove

Inter Miami CF

The place they play: Main League Soccer (USA)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: “Hosts,” and winners of 2024 MLS Supporters’ Protect

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas set the aim for Inter Miami on the Membership World Cup: qualify for the knockout rounds. If they’ll pull it off, the match could possibly be successful for possession. Coach Javier Mascherano is choosing a extra life like strategy, admitting the extent they’re set to face on the Membership World Cup might be larger than any Concacaf Champions Cup or MLS sport.

Mascherano insists the roster depth just isn’t the place it must be coming into the match, however the crew will struggle in each sport. Expectations are excessive for any crew with Messi, however the goal for Inter Miami might be to qualify for the knockout rounds.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Inter Miami is the youngest crew to compete within the match after debuting in Main League Soccer through the 2020 season.

Our prediction: Inter Miami will struggle to complete the group stage in second place and qualify for the knockout rounds. The match in opposition to Palmeiras is likely to be the most important battle, although you would be silly to wager in opposition to Messi and Luis Suárez in match play. — Lizzy Becherano

Palmeiras

The place they play: Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2021 Copa Libertadores

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Followers of rival golf equipment typically taunt Palmeiras about by no means profitable the Intercontinental title, which is commonly in contrast with a world championship in South America. This new match is a perfect alternative to silence the critics.

Nonetheless it goes, Palmeiras is not going to fail for an absence of ambition or intelligence. Portuguese coach Abel Ferreira reminds a few of a younger Jose Mourinho by way of touchline techniques and, extra importantly, arising with a profitable plan. Recognizing the significance of the event, the membership has given him loads of attacking gamers. Striker Vitor Roque is the costliest participant a Brazilian membership has ever signed, Uruguayan playmaker Facundo Torres is from MLS, and wunderkind Estevao will be part of Chelsea after the competitors. Palmeiras are dreaming of going all the best way.

Enjoyable truth you must know: The membership of São Paulo’s giant Italian neighborhood, Palmeiras have been initially referred to as “Palestra Italia.” After World Battle II, they took on the extra tropical title of “palm timber.”

Our prediction: With Palmeiras boasting a powerful squad and a vibrant coach, it will be unwise to miss them. A key query: Will Ferreira be too cautious within the tight video games? Something lower than the quarterfinals could be a significant disappointment. — Tim Vickery

Porto

The place they play: Portuguese Primeira Liga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Fifth-best-ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? FC Porto completed third within the Primeira Liga for the second straight season, which is a catastrophe. Not solely does that imply misplaced Champions League income for twenty-four months, however any yr they end final among the many trio of opponents that additionally consists of Benfica and Sporting CP is an issue. They will possible see this match as a chance for redemption. “You may anticipate a assured and powerful FC Porto,” midfielder Fabio Vieira mentioned this week. “We see it as an opportunity to shut the season in the absolute best method.”

Vieira is on mortgage from Arsenal however has had his contract prolonged into July to play the complete match, if required, plus the membership has signed Gabri Veiga from Al Ahli for €15 million in time to be registered. These actions again up the concept that the Dragões are in it to win it.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Porto’s fearsome stadium, the Dragão, was constructed as a part of Portugal’s bid to host Euro 2004. It opened in 2003 with an inaugural match in opposition to Barcelona, wherein Lionel Messi made his first look.

Our prediction: Porto landed in Group A and can imagine they’ll win it; beating Palmeiras, Inter Miami and Al Ahly is a sensible aim. Nonetheless, the chance of operating into PSG or Atlético Madrid within the spherical of 16 means they won’t get a lot additional. — Sam Tighe

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GROUP B

Atletico Madrid

The place they play: Spanish LaLiga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Sixth-best ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Being at this match is important for Atletico. They’re right here — qualifying primarily based on constant Champions League performances since 2021 — alongside Actual Madrid, and Barcelona aren’t, and which means one thing. And identical to Actual Madrid, they’re trying to make up for a disappointing finish to the season, when their LaLiga title problem slipped away after being controversially eradicated from the UCL by their native rivals.

Atletico haven’t any thrilling new signings to indicate off, however they do have some gamers, like Julián Álvarez and Alexander Sorloth, who ended the season in sensational kind. (Sorloth scored seven objectives in his final 4 LaLiga video games, lastly incomes a spot within the beginning XI). Atletico’s group is not simple, though they did — one way or the other — beat PSG after they met again in November. Right here, they’re going to anticipate to achieve the knockout stage, and see what occurs from there.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Diego Simeone is the longest-serving supervisor in LaLiga, having been in command of Atletico since December 2011. He is their most profitable coach ever, too, with eight trophies in that point.

Our prediction: They will progress from the group, and win their spherical of 16 sport too. However the quarterfinals — the place they might meet Bayern Munich or Chelsea — is likely to be a step too far. — Alex Kirkland

Botafogo

The place they play: Campeonato Brasileiro Série A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2024 Copa Libertadores

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Bankrolled by U.S. businessman John Textor, Botafogo of Rio de Janeiro are the reigning champions of Brazil and of South America. However that was final yr, and several other important gamers have moved on since then. Extra — particularly Igor Jesus, their great centerforward — might be shifting on after the Membership World Cup. The 2025 crew doesn’t look as sturdy, and the membership have battled their method by an ungainly few months.

Just a few months in the past the aim for this match would have been to struggle for the title. No such claims are being made in the mean time, though there’s a hope that Portuguese coach Renato Paiva has discovered a mix that ought to imply they’re aggressive. In addition they do not lack for ambition — therefore Textor’s reported makes an attempt to recruit Cristiano Ronaldo for the match.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Botafogo’s mascot is a black and white canine referred to as Biriba. Again within the Nineteen Fifties, the membership president used to hold the animal into the stadium, and throw him onto the pitch when the crew have been trying to kill time.

Our prediction: Up in opposition to new European champions Paris Saint-Germain and Simeone’s Atletico Madrid, Botafogo will do properly to get out of the group, and on this yr’s kind, it is laborious to see them getting past the quarterfinals. — Tim Vickery

Paris Saint-Germain

The place they play: French Ligue 1
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Second-best ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? To again up being topped champions of Europe by incomes the tag of world champions. PSG’s unimaginable second half of the season, culminating of their 5-0 demolition of Inter within the Champions League closing, will heighten the highlight forward of the Membership World Cup. If the match performs out as most anticipate then a crew from UEFA will win and, at the moment, PSG are UEFA’s greatest crew.

It was noteworthy that instantly after the Champions League closing in Munich, the message from membership chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi was that they have been heading to the U.S. to win. In the event that they handle to seek out the vitality to play in the identical method they did within the Champions League knock-out rounds, there is no cause to assume they will not.

Enjoyable truth you must know: This might be PSG’s first look on the Membership World Cup.

Our prediction: Group B might be the hardest with PSG, Atletico Madrid, Botafogo and Seattle Sounders, however as reigning European champions they will not worry anybody. Something lower than the semifinals might be a disappointment. — Rob Dawson

Seattle Sounders FC

The place they play: Main League Soccer (USA)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2022 Concacaf Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Merely put: To not embarrass themselves. Which may look like an exceptionally low bar, however when you think about that their best opponents within the group stage are Botafogo — the present title-holders of the Copa Libertadores — no crew has a harder set of opening matches than the Seattle Sounders.

Positive, they’re going to have an edge in house discipline benefit, and we additionally should not rule out a attainable game-defining second or two from playmaker/goalscorer Albert Rusnák, however the ambitions right here might be to look aggressive and keep away from one-sided defeats.

Enjoyable truth you must know: The primary pair of brothers to not solely swimsuit up in an MLS match for the Sounders, but additionally for MLS’ All-Star crew? That is the Roldan brothers, Alex and Cristian, who additionally signify separate nationwide groups (El Salvador, U.S., respectively).

Our prediction: They will obtain their aim of not getting thrashed at house, but it surely’s troublesome to see them surviving past the group stage — particularly with the added setback of ongoing harm worries for key gamers. — Cesar Hernandez

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GROUP C

Auckland Metropolis

The place they play: New Zealand’s Northern League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Greatest OFC Champions League winners within the OFC four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Given their standing as powerhouses of Oceania, Auckland Metropolis have really certified for the Membership World Cup on 12 earlier events however loads of these appearances have seen them fall within the playoffs even earlier than the quarterfinals — although they did attain the final 4 in 2014. They are going to merely be trying to give a optimistic account of themselves, in addition to New Zealand and Oceania soccer, and can solely acquire from the expertise of taking over groups like Bayern Munich, Benfica and Boca Juniors.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Auckland Metropolis would be the solely beginner outfit on the match, with their gamers working day jobs and coaching simply three to 4 instances per week through the common season.

Our prediction: The chances are stacked firmly in opposition to them however they actually don’t have anything to lose. Three David vs. Goliath battles lie forward and there will certainly be no scarcity of impartial rooting for his or her endearing underdog story. — Gabriel Tan

Bayern Munich

The place they play: German Bundesliga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Greatest ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Like many of the huge UEFA groups, Bayern Munich are right here to win. Having gained again the Bundesliga title from Bayer Leverkusen, the aim might be to indicate everybody that they continue to be among the many greatest groups on this planet. Common quarterfinalists within the Champions League and with one of many strongest squads within the match, Vincent Kompany and his crew will fancy their possibilities of attending to the latter rounds. As soon as there, identical to within the Champions League, something can occur.

Enjoyable truth you must know: No crew in Europe’s top-five leagues have gained extra consecutive home titles than Bayern’s 11 in a row between 2013 and 2023.

Our prediction: Bayern ought to win Group C with ease. Their potential quarterfinal opponent will come from Group B — both PSG or Atletico — which might find yourself being their first severe take a look at of their match. — Rob Dawson

Benfica

The place they play: Portuguese Primeira Liga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Seventh-best ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? For the second yr in a row, Benfica misplaced the Portuguese title race to fierce cross-city rivals Sporting CP. Agonisingly, the hole between the 2 golf equipment was simply two factors ultimately. As such, the Membership World Cup will now function the best distraction for The Eagles, who can put home disappointment behind them shortly with a powerful displaying on the worldwide stage. They’ve managed to maintain Actual Madrid goal Álvaro Carreras for not less than the period of this match, and who is aware of? Maybe some good performances will improve any eventual switch payment.

Enjoyable truth you must know: In February 2025, Benfica hit the 400,000 mark for “socios” (members), the primary sports activities membership on this planet to achieve such a milestone.

Our prediction: Benfica have been drawn into Group C alongside Bayern Munich, Boca Juniors and Auckland Metropolis, which could simply be essentially the most fascinating cluster of groups this competitors has. Boca pose a severe risk to the belief The Eagles will end second behind Bayern, and in the event that they do stave off that risk, it solely will get more durable from there. — Sam Tighe

Boca Juniors

The place they play: Argentina’s Primera Division
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Second-best ranked eligible crew within the CONMEBOL four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? 1000’s turned as much as see them off on the airport forward of this competitors, however the followers have been there extra in hope than expectation. These usually are not good instances for the Buenos Aires giants, who suffered a humiliating exit within the qualifying rounds of this yr’s Copa Libertadores.

Star man Edinson Cavani has been struggling for kind and the squad appears wanting high quality. On the eve of the competitors, they introduced again veteran coach Miguel Angel Russo, who took them to their final Libertadores triumph all the best way again in 2007. He’s thrown straight into the deep finish as Boca’s opening two matches are in opposition to European opponents. The intention, then, might be to strive to make sure that Boca are nonetheless alive within the competitors after they meet Auckland Metropolis within the final group sport, and take it from there, trusting that spirit and dedication can carry them alongside.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Legend has it that in 1907, a novel methodology was employed to resolve the membership’s colors. All of it trusted the subsequent ship to look on the Buenos Aires waterfront, which occurred to be from Sweden — which is why Boca put on blue and yellow.

Our prediction: Except Russo can work miracles, it is laborious to see how a crew which has been underperforming at house can probably tackle the world. Making it out of the group could be a triumph. — Tim Vickery

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GROUP D

Chelsea

The place they play: English Premier League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? For Chelsea, this match is all about momentum. At one stage final season they have been thought of real (although tentative) title challengers, solely to fall away throughout a poor spell in the midst of the marketing campaign. It led to questions on supervisor Enzo Maresca’s job, however Chelsea recovered to complete strongly to qualify for the Champions League and win the UEFA Convention League.

Maresca will need to construct on the feel-good issue within the U.S. and put himself able to take one other step ahead subsequent season. Chelsea are in all probability exterior the group of UEFA groups who will really feel they have an opportunity to win it, however that does not imply they can not have a optimistic expertise.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Chelsea are the final UEFA crew to lose a Membership World Cup closing, crushed 1-0 by Corinthians in 2012.

Our prediction: As the one UEFA crew in Group D they need to make it to the knockout rounds, although Flamengo will pose a risk with the match coming in the midst of the Brazilian home season. Making the quarterfinals must be the aim. — Rob Dawson

Esperance de Tunis

The place they play: Tunisian Ligue Professionelle 1
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Greatest-ranked eligible crew within the CAF four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? The third proud, historic North African institution to qualify for this competitors, and one backed by legions of passionate and hungry supporters, Esperance are approaching the match with expectations which may not fairly match up with their actuality.

Preparation has been sturdy, notably profitable the Tunisian Cup after which succeeding in retaining nationwide crew gamers who would have been referred to as up for the June internationals so as to dedicate all assets and a focus to their opener in opposition to Flamengo. Nonetheless, this fixture could possibly be a actuality examine, with the Brazilian giants at the moment main Serie A and in high-quality fettle below Filipe Luis.

The North Africans will anticipate to beat Los Angeles FC, though Chelsea might be ominous opponents as they arrive off the again of their UEFA Convention League success. Esperance are actually taking this match critically — they’ve even launched a brand new equipment to have fun their participation — however will or not it’s sufficient?

Enjoyable truth you must know: The younger cartoon boy on the Esperance brand actually offers the membership a singular visible model id. His title is Oulidha, crew mascot and supporter #1919 (the yr of the membership’s basis). He is supposed to signify the crew’s fanbase, and has turn out to be a key component of Esperance’s iconography as they increase their industrial footprint.

Our prediction: Algeria veteran Youcef Belaïli and his worldwide teammate Mohamed Amine Tougai are high-quality skills, and Esperance will not be swatted apart simply. Nonetheless, regardless of coming into the CWC on the again of a home double, this crew is not the extent of the facet that gained back-to-back Champions Leagues in 2018 and 2019, or the treble-winners of 2011, and their opener in opposition to such an in-form and goal-hungry Flamengo facet might set the tone for an underwhelming marketing campaign. — Ed Dove

Flamengo

The place they play: Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2022 Copa Libertadores

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? One of many world’s greatest golf equipment, Flamengo usually are not allowed to assume small, particularly since checking out their funds a decade in the past. In spite of everything, the anthem of the Rio de Janeiro giants declares an ambition to “win, win, win.” The followers nonetheless sing relentlessly of victory over Liverpool within the Intercontinental Cup closing of 1981, and are wanting ahead to having one thing new to chant about.

That is greater than old-school Flamengo hubris. Promising coach Filipe Luis has a deep squad at his disposal, with loads of choices in broad positions, and the return from harm of extremely rated centre ahead Pedro to spearhead the assault. The acquisition of former Premier League midfielder Jorginho ought to assist them set strikes in movement.

The membership are additionally giving nice significance to the timing of the match; they need to be mid-season recent, whereas European opponents might be dragging weary end-of-season our bodies across the pitch.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Flamengo started life as a rowing membership for the Rio elite, taking on soccer later and purchased the favored contact within the Nineteen Thirties after they signed three of the main black gamers of the day. With radio carrying their video games throughout Brazil, they constructed up a large, nationwide fan base.

Our prediction: There might be widespread disappointment with something lower than a spot within the semifinals. A key query; given an early lead and area, they’ll take opponents aside, however they’ve discovered it laborious to interrupt down obstinate defences, and this could possibly be their undoing. — Tim Vickery

Los Angeles FC

The place they play: Main League Soccer
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of play-in match, defeating Membership Leon on Could 31

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Even earlier than kicking a ball for the primary time of their 2018 debut, LAFC have not been shy about utilizing the phrase “international attain” when discussing their aspirations. The MLS glamor facet and 2022 league champions are nonetheless removed from really reaching that aim, however there is no doubt that they’ll make some noteworthy steps by a knockout spherical invitation — which is not out of the query.

Assuming that Chelsea high the group and Esperance de Tunis end backside, LAFC may have the ability to sneak previous Flamengo within the standings because of their capability to counter groups in transition with the pacey Denis Bouanga main the cost. On the world stage, do not additionally rely out some huge sport moments from Hugo Lloris or Olivier Giroud, both — though Giroud is now an possibility off the bench.

Enjoyable truth you must know: True to their Tinseltown roots, LAFC discovered inspiration within the glitzy historical past of the town when selecting their colours. “The black-and-gold combo … has a sure L.A. vibe to it,” Larry Freedman, co-preside of LAFC, mentioned to ESPN final yr. “Artwork Deco, Hollywood, gold, black tie, gold trophy, proper? It is the Oscars, black tie and gold trophy.”

Our prediction: There might be no Hollywood ending. When you think about the opponents like Chelsea and Flamengo, LAFC will simply narrowly miss out on the knockout spherical. — Cesar Hernandez

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GROUP E

Inter Milan

The place they play: Italian Serie A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Fourth-best-ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? To win it. The UEFA Champions League closing in opposition to PSG may need been a step too far, however this stays a proficient and skilled squad that enters each match anticipating success. Their expertise additionally provides one other layer to this trophy chase as a result of for gamers resembling Francesco Acerbi (37) and Henrikh Mkhitaryan (36), the silverware window is closing quickly. It could possibly be now or by no means.

Inter are one in every of two European groups (the opposite Actual Madrid) that can debut a brand new supervisor on the match, as Cristian Chivu takes the reins after Simone Inzaghi’s departure to Al Hilal. Will this breathe recent air into the crew at simply the fitting time, or throw a wrench within the works?

Enjoyable truth you must know: In 2003, Inter’s legendary forged of gamers, which included Javier Zanetti, Esteban Cambiasso and extra, recorded an unimaginable rendition of the tune “Pazza Inter Amala.” Take a look at Hernán Crespo’s pipes!

Our prediction: A lot will rely upon their depth at this stage of the yr after the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. However on paper, Inter are one of many strongest eight groups heading to the Membership World Cup and will set a minimal intention of reaching the quarterfinals. However the managerial scenario has clouded their preparation, whereas River Plate, Monterrey and Urawa Pink Diamonds will show a problem. The Nerazzurri could possibly be on upset alert. — Sam Tighe

Monterrey

The place they play: Liga MX (Mexico)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2021 Concacaf Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? As among the greatest spenders within the trendy period of Mexican soccer, Los Rayados understand themselves as one of many vanguards of North America who could make some noise on the worldwide stage. They have a roster that features Sergio Ramos, Lucas Ocampos and Sergio Canales, former Pep Guardiola assistant Domenec Torrent as the brand new supervisor, and have been as soon as aggressive not too way back in opposition to Liverpool in a 2-1 loss within the semifinal stage of 2019’s (a lot smaller and fully completely different) Membership World Cup.

Darkish horses? That is the intention, however in Liga MX, Monterrey are extra identified for falling wanting success regardless of their vital monetary backing. Regardless of having a formidable roster and an much more spectacular world-class stadium, they have not gained a Mexican top-flight title this decade. Can Torrent, who was employed in late Could, assist attain their lofty ambitions?

Enjoyable truth you must know: Any fan of the game wants so as to add Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA to their bucket record. The view of the Cerro de la Silla is arguably probably the most gorgeous backdrops in world soccer.

Our prediction: As has been the case within the 2020s, all indicators level to an earlier exit than anticipated. Torrent possible will not have sufficient time to keep away from what could possibly be a run by simply the group stage. — Cesar Hernandez

River Plate

The place they play: Argentina’s Primera Division
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Greatest-ranked eligible crew within the CONMEBOL four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? In 2018, River have been the final non-Brazilian winners of the Libertadores. However having discovered it unimaginable to get previous groups from Brazil and due to this fact not reclaim their place as champions of their continent, how can they hope to overcome the world? It’s a truthful level, and one River will try and drown out with songs of self-belief.

Supervisor Marcelo Gallardo’s squad has loads of depth in attacking midfield positions — together with the newest wunderkind Franco Mastantuono, who joins Actual Madrid in August — and the crew must be straightforward on the eyes. However after Gallardo took over late final yr, his second tenure has not been practically as convincing as his epic 2014 to 2022 first tenure in cost, and everyone seems to be conscious that the crew should enhance considerably on this yr’s kind whether it is to make severe headway.

Enjoyable truth you must know: River started life in the identical working-class docklands space as Boca Juniors, however moved out to the prosperous suburbs and have been primarily based of their present house since 1938. Their stadium now boasts the biggest capability in South America.

Our prediction: On paper, their group doesn’t seem like probably the most difficult, and they need to progress. However then comes the problem that would undermine their marketing campaign: Can they play Gallardo’s favored expansive model and nonetheless defend in opposition to high quality opponents? — Tim Vickery

Urawa Pink Diamonds

The place they play: Japan’s J1 League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2022 AFC Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Urawa have a good document within the match, ending third in 2007 whereas additionally reaching the semifinals as lately as 2023. Sadly, a tough draw hasn’t accomplished them any favors, although the Reds have a behavior of rising to the event even when they don’t seem to be at their greatest on the home entrance. Although few is likely to be anticipating them to go far, Urawa might be quietly concentrating on progress to the knockout spherical, not less than.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Earlier than the institution of the skilled J.League, Urawa — then generally known as Mitsubishi Motors — turned the primary Japanese membership to attain a home treble in 1978.

Our prediction: Urawa could possibly be Asia’s greatest probability of a crew advancing from the group stage. On paper, they is likely to be underdogs in all three matches, however they’ve the standard and expertise to match River Plate and Monterrey, even when upsetting Inter Milan is likely to be a bridge too far. — Gabriel Tan

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GROUP F

Borussia Dortmund

The place they play: German Bundesliga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Third-best-ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Dortmund reached the Champions League closing in 2024 — after they have been crushed 2-0 by Actual Madrid — however expectations right here might be tempered by an underwhelming home season wherein they completed fourth in Germany. They completed the marketing campaign strongly with six straight wins in all competitions, together with notable victories over Barcelona within the Champions League and Bayer Leverkusen within the Bundesliga. The aim on the Membership World Cup might be to make it to the knockout rounds, however with an understanding that will probably be powerful after they run into one of many main UEFA groups later within the match.

Enjoyable truth you must know: The Yellow Wall at their Sign Iduna Park stadium — with a capability of practically 25,000 — is likely one of the most iconic stands in world soccer.

Our prediction: They need to progress from Group F, however they may battle to get past the quarterfinals. — Rob Dawson

Fluminense

The place they play: Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2023 Copa Libertadores

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? The venerable outdated Rio de Janeiro membership have been maybe punching above their weight after they gained their debut Libertadores title in 2023. Residing with the aftermath has not been straightforward, and so they fought a chronic battle final yr in opposition to relegation to Brazil’s second division. This yr’s coach, membership legend Renato Portaluppi, has steadied the ship, and Fluminense can head north in good spirits.

The competitors will herald some much-needed money, and in contrast to the opposite Brazilian groups, they carry no expectations. And with Thiago Silva to marshal the protection, plus the superb Colombian attacking midfielder Jhon Arias eager to seek out gaps within the opposing again line, they’ll rely on some high quality of their lineup. The primary goal, then, is to return with morale intact and construct some momentum they’ll carry into home soccer.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Fábio, the membership’s 44-year-old goalkeeper, is closing in on the document for essentially the most skilled video games performed. Based on the Guinness E-book of World Data, ex-England keeper Peter Shilton performed 1,390 official matches. Fábio is at 1,374 and counting.

Our prediction: On paper, Fluminense’s group does not come throughout as probably the most troublesome, and they also have probability of escaping. However the quarterfinals would appear to be their restrict. — Tim Vickery

Mamelodi Sundowns

The place they play: Betway Premiership (South Africa)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Second-best-ranked eligible crew within the CAF four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Domestically imperious, as winners of the previous eight PSL titles, Masandawana have struggled to translate that dominance to continental glory. They fared poorly on the 2016 Membership World Cup, shedding to Kashima Antlers and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors as they have been reminded of South African soccer’s place within the international order.

9 years later, and with victory within the inaugural African Tremendous Cup, they’re going to be hoping to show they’ll maintain their very own in a extra rarefied setting. As Africa’s richest membership, backed by CAF president Dr. Patrice Motsepe and with the funds to herald gamers from South America, Sundowns have outlined their intent to depart unforgettable reminiscences and showcase South African excellence on the match. Will they battle to select themselves up after shedding the Champions League closing June 1, or will this failure spur them to make an impression within the U.S.?

Enjoyable truth you must know: Sundowns have been nicknamed “The Brazilians” because the late ’80s, after they modified their equipment colours to match the Brazil nationwide crew. Within the intervening years, their taking part in model has aspired to emulate the “conventional” Selecao model, taking part in with aptitude, flamboyance and particular person expression. Now, lastly, they’re going to get to strut in opposition to an precise Brazilian crew after they face Fluminense of their closing group sport?

Our prediction: Sundowns signify Africa’s greatest wager of reaching the knockout levels, given a comparatively favorable group. Brazilians Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Arthur Gross sales, plus Iqraam Rayners and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, will relish the event, though the paucity of their weekly PSL opponents and lack of demanding competitors at house will not have ready them for this stage. — Ed Dove

Ulsan HD

The place they play: Ok League 1 (South Korea)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Greatest-ranked eligible crew within the AFC four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Maybe to get a win. In each of their earlier appearances in 2012 and 2020, Ulsan have been eradicated on the first hurdle. Given the match’s new expanded format, Ulsan are assured to play not less than three matches. They are going to possible be the underdogs in opposition to Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense, so maybe it’s their opener in opposition to Mamelodi Sundowns the place they need to be going all out for victory.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Ulsan are owned by the shipbuilding and heavy tools division of one in every of South Korea’s greatest conglomerates, the Hyundai Group. Therefore, their earlier moniker of Ulsan Hyundai. Together with “sister membership” Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, they’ve mixed for the previous eight Ok League 1 titles.

Our prediction: Ulsan must be aiming for 3 factors in opposition to Mamelodi. If they’ll get a draw in opposition to both Dortmund or Fluminense, they might attain the knockout spherical. — Gabriel Tan

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GROUP G

Al Ain

The place they play: UAE Professional League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2023-24 AFC Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Having been drawn alongside European giants Manchester Metropolis and Juventus, Al Ain’s prospects of a top-two end in Group G look bleak. Much like a number of different groups on the match, their greatest hope is to get one victory — with Wydad AC their likeliest probability.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Al Ain made a superb run to the Membership World Cup closing in 2018 earlier than struggling a 4-1 defeat to Actual Madrid. On that event, they have been competing because the winners of the host nation’s home competitors, slightly than as one of many continental champions.

Our prediction: Al Ain look to have the hardest draw of all of Asia’s representatives. Returning to the United Arab Emirates with three factors could be successful. — Ed Dove

Juventus

The place they play: Italian Serie A
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Eighth-best-ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Involved they’d miss a top-four spot in Serie A, Juventus fired supervisor Thiago Motta in late March and appointed Igor Tudor for the run-in. The change labored, because the Outdated Girl secured Champions League soccer because of a season-ending unbeaten run. That turnaround generated some momentum, and having secured Tudor’s companies for the subsequent yr, whereas additionally extending star ahead Randal Kolo Muani’s mortgage from PSG, they’re set to compete laborious this summer season.

That is in all probability Juve’s greatest probability of silverware for the foreseeable future, as they’ve fallen far behind Serie A’s high stage, however they’ve the instruments and tenacity to win a brief cup competitors.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Juventus put on black and white as a nod to English fourth-tier membership Notts County. Their first international participant, Gordon Thomas Savage, took a bag stuffed with County shirts to Italy within the early 1900s, which prompted a change in colour scheme. When Juve opened their new stadium in 2011, they invited Notts County to play the primary official sport there as a mark of respect.

Our prediction: Group G is winnable, and will Juve achieve this, a transparent path to the quarterfinals not less than emerges. In the event that they end second, they danger operating into Actual Madrid within the spherical of 16. — Sam Tighe

Manchester Metropolis

The place they play: English Premier League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Manchester Metropolis are right here to win it, though it is likely to be powerful. Pep Guardiola’s crew is coming off a troublesome season and needed to limp over the road to make sure it completed above the Champions League cutoff. Guardiola can even be utilizing the match to settle 4 new signings. Playmaker Rayan Cherki, midfielder Tijjani Reijnders, left again Rayan Aït-Nouri and goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli have arrived in FIFA’s specifically created Membership World Cup switch window, and it’ll take time for them to know the distinctive calls for of taking part in for Pep.

There are many causes Metropolis will not win it, however the calls for stay the identical. Whether or not it is the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, EFL Cup or Membership World Cup, Guardiola and Metropolis anticipate to win or get very shut.

Enjoyable truth you must know: That is an expanded model of the competitors, however Metropolis are technically the defending champs after profitable in 2023.

Our prediction: Profitable Group G, which additionally consists of Juventus, might be key, as a result of in the event that they end second, it could possibly be Actual Madrid within the final 16. If they’ll keep away from the Spanish giants within the early knockout rounds, they need to attain not less than the semifinals. — Rob Dawson

Wydad AC

The place they play: Botola Professional (Morocco)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2021-22 CAF Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? The group draw hasn’t been sort. Does every other crew have two more durable opening fixtures than Wydad, who should face Manchester Metropolis and Juventus in Philadelphia over 4 days? Aiming to be in rivalry after they face Al Ain of their closing fixture seems modest and impressive, whereas any pre-tournament pleasure might be dampened in the event that they’re humbled of their opener in opposition to Metropolis.

Wydad are hungry for the competitors after not taking part in in any continental match final season — the primary time this has occurred in a decade — and a consequence of a sixth-place end domestically in 2023-24. This time period, they not less than returned to African competitors after ending third within the Botola, however they continue to be a membership in disarray, battling persistent instability and showing unlikely to upset the chances on the Membership World Cup.

Enjoyable truth you must know: “Wydad” is an Arabic phrase which means friendship or enduring love. It was chosen because the membership’s title after the suggestion of one of many founding members (Dr. Hajj Abdel Latif Benjelloun Touimi), who arrived late for a gathering after having seen a movie of the identical title on the cinema. The title caught, and a dynasty was born.

Our prediction: It is laborious to make a case for Wydad to take factors from their opening matches, and even Al Ain — who tasted continental glory a yr in the past — ought to signify stern opponents, led by Morocco and ex-Raja Casablanca ahead Soufiane Rahimi. Had the match been performed in 2022 after WAC had gained the African Champions League, it might have been a special story, however the 2025 model of Wydad just isn’t arriving in the US in good well being. — Ed Dove

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GROUP H

Al Hilal

The place they play: Saudi Professional League
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2021 AFC Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Contemplating Al Hilal are the only real representatives of the Saudi Professional League, they’ll look to boost the burgeoning repute of their home division. It is likely to be straightforward to put in writing off Al Hilal’s possibilities at first look, however given they boast João Cancelo, Aleksandar Mitrović, Rúben Neves and Kalidou Koulibaly, they are going to be a troublesome out for many opponents.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Having made a managerial change, new Al Hilal coach Simone Inzaghi’s first official sport in cost will come in opposition to Actual Madrid.

Our prediction: With the highest two groups in every group advancing, Al Hilal may need been dreaming of a spot within the knockout spherical. Nonetheless, Pink Bull Salzburg will pose a major hurdle whereas Pachuca are not any pushovers, both. Finally, they may have already been damage by the luck of the draw. — Gabriel Tan

Actual Madrid

The place they play: Spanish LaLiga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2021-22 UEFA Champions League

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? Madrid need to win it. That is their intention in each competitors, however there’s a lot at stake right here.

First, Madrid need to make up for an underwhelming season that ended with out a main trophy for the primary time since 2021 — lacking out on LaLiga, the Copa del Rey and the Champions League — wherein they have been properly crushed by many of the high opposition they encountered, resembling these 4 consecutive Clásico defeats to Barcelona. Second, it is an opportunity for high-profile new signings resembling Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen to indicate that they’ll enhance the crew, and assist overcome final season’s obtrusive defensive shortcomings. And third, that is Xabi Alonso’s hasty introduction as coach, after simply two weeks in cost and 10 days of coaching.

Alonso referred to as it “a chance to get began with processes,” and with no time for a correct preseason earlier than the 2025-26 marketing campaign, it should be.

Enjoyable truth you must know: Actual Madrid have gained the Membership World Cup — within the outdated, lowered format — greater than every other crew, lifting the trophy 5 instances from 2014 to 2022.

Our prediction: It is dependent upon the model of Actual Madrid. Final season’s crew did not look able to beating severe opposition, besides, Madrid will make it by the group. If Alonso can get his concepts throughout in time, they might go all the best way. — Alex Kirkland

Pink Bull Salzburg

The place they play: Austrian Bundesliga
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Ninth-best-ranked eligible crew within the UEFA four-year rating

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? It is controversial that the Membership World Cup has come on the unsuitable time for FC Salzburg, who gained 10 Austrian straight titles from 2014 to 2023, solely to complete second to Sturm Graz in every of the previous two seasons. FC Salzburg are the second-best crew in Austria, so although they’re going to signify the general sturdy UEFA contingent in the US, they’re successfully a minnow in their very own pool. However, the membership is taking the problem head-on.

“It’s such a particular alternative for us. We’re aiming to be daring,” supervisor Thomas Letsch mentioned. “We intention to remain humble, however we need to compete with perception in our personal talents.”

Enjoyable truth you must know: Package producer Puma and designer KidSuper have mixed to create a particular Salzburg equipment for the Membership World Cup. It is impressed by the surroundings of the Alps mountain vary and options an edelweiss flower.

Our prediction: Pachuca, Al Hilal and Actual Madrid signify an especially powerful group. Deep progress is unlikely. — Sam Tighe

Pachuca

The place they play: Liga MX (Mexico)
How they certified for Membership World Cup: Winners of the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup

What’s their Membership World Cup aim? After exceeding expectations throughout a second-place end in December’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup, the youthful Pachuca will search to turn out to be a shock crew that impacts the knockout spherical. Except for in search of extra respect on the world stage within the latter levels, in addition they need to present a platform for his or her up-and-coming gamers who come from arguably the most effective academy system within the Concacaf area.

First, they’re going to have to maneuver previous the group stage. Former Mexico supervisor Jaime “Jimmy” Lozano will make his debut with the membership after the current exit of Guillermo Almada, giving little time for final season’s Liga MX quarterfinalists to soak up new concepts.

Enjoyable truth you must know: The irony of the younger Pachuca roster is that the membership is the oldest in Liga MX, courting to the Nineties by the founding by British miners within the native space.

Our prediction: Persistently punching above their weight, Pachuca will emerge as knockout-round darkish horses after wins final winter over the winners of the Copa Libertadores and the CAF Champions League. Of their kids, control Elias Montiel, who could possibly be a breakout participant. — Cesar Hernandez