The Club World Cup returns for more breathless action this week – from astonishing scorelines to heated matches, the tournament has had it all in the opening stages.
With powerhouse teams already making statements and more showdowns on the horizon, we’re bound for a galvanising knockout phase.
Here, Sport Preview’s Ethan Pitts tips up three selections for Wednesday’s round of fixtures, as teams aim to lay down a marker.
Man City score over 3.5 goals – 11/10 (SkyBet)
Manchester City’s 2024/2025 campaign was in stark contrast to that of their usual dominance – marred by inconsistency, off-field drama and key injuries, it marked their first trophyless season since Pep Guardiola’s first campaign in charge in 2016/2017.
However, a fast start to the 2025 off-season has propelled the Cityzens right back into trophy conversations again – anchored by City having the third lowest betting odds to win this year’s Club World Cup at 11/2 (BetVictor).
The arrivals of Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait Nouri and Tijjani Reijnders add a much-needed dynamism that City had lost through some of their ageing superstars.
City also welcome back Rodri from a long-term injury as he aims to return to the form that saw him crowned the 2024 Ballon D’or winner.
In a game of opposing riches – City should comfortably defeat Wydad Casablanca, and do so by scoring four or more goals.
READ MORE: FIFA Club World Cup 2025 betting guide: Full fixture list, venues and kick-off times
Inter Milan and Monterrey: Both teams to score – 3/4 (Bet 365)
The 2025 UEFA Champions League Final in Munich was a night to forget for Inter Milan.
Instead of a battle for the ages, it became a disaster of historic proportions – their heaviest defeat ever in a continental final at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain.
The Club World Cup gives “Nerazzurri” the chance to bounce back and send a statement. However, they will have to get past the high-scoring Monterrey to do so.
One of Mexico’s most eminent football institutions, “Rayados” enter the Club World Cup for the sixth time in the club’s history.
The Mexican side have never got past the semi-finals in this competition before and will hope they can get over the hump come the 13th of July.
Both teams are known for their scoring prowess.
Inter have scored at least one goal in six out of their last seven appearances and Monterrey have scored similar in 19 of their last 20 matches in all competitions.
In what will be an end-to-end game, expect both sides to cancel each other out in an attempt to obtain three massive points.
Real Madrid vs Al Hilal: Kylian Mbappe to score 2 or more goals – 5/2 (PaddyPower)
Kylian Mbappe’s long-awaited arrival at Real Madrid in 2024 was hailed as the start of a new Galactico era.
Despite a campaign filled with flashes of brilliance and goals in abundance, Mbappe was unable to provide Madrid with any form of silverware – the first time they have endured this since 2010.
The arrival of Xabi Alonso as manager has given Madrid fans a renewed sense of optimism going into the Club World Cup, as a new tactical philosophy will aim to get the best out of their superstars – including Mbappe.
Mbappe comes into this game against Al Hilal in ferocious form, having netted in his last eight games for club and country.
Despite Al Hilal possessing an array of talent, Real Madrid should have too much for the Saudi Pro League side – and Mbappe will be at the forefront playing a starring role.
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