As the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup draws closer, the football world is eagerly anticipating the tournament’s draw, set to take place this Thursday. The prestigious competition, which will feature 32 teams, will be held in Miami next June, with Real Madrid entering as one of the top seeds. Despite initial reservations from manager Carlo Ancelotti, who had previously expressed concerns about the tournament’s rewards, Madrid will be a part of the tournament as reigning European champions and two-time winners in the past three seasons.
As the draw looms, we take a closer look at the potential opponents for the Spanish giants, who have been seeded in Pot 1. While Real Madrid are one of the favorites to lift the trophy, the tournament is full of potential challenges, with some very familiar names looming in the draw. Here’s a breakdown of who they could face:
Potential Pot 2 Opponents: A Mix of European and South American Foes
FIFA’s carefully rigged draw ensures that teams from the same association do not meet too early, meaning that Real Madrid won’t face another European powerhouse like Chelsea or Borussia Dortmund in the early stages. That leaves Madrid with a select number of potential opponents from Pot 2, including Portuguese side Benfica, Italian giants Juventus, and Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg.
- Benfica: The Portuguese side is always a tough opponent, particularly with the creative influence of Ángel Di María, a former Madrid player. Benfica’s strong European pedigree makes them a dangerous side, though Madrid would be confident of progression.
- Juventus: A historic European rival, Juventus could offer a fascinating showdown. With multiple Champions League titles between them, both clubs have a rich history and a rivalry that could add extra spice to the match-up.
- Red Bull Salzburg: On paper, Salzburg represent the weakest of the trio, having struggled to make an impact in recent Champions League campaigns. Nevertheless, the Austrian champions could still prove tricky for Real Madrid, especially in a high-stakes tournament setting.
Potential Pot 3 Opponents: Global Challenges Await
The third pot features a mix of champions from across the globe, including clubs from South America, Asia, Africa, and North America. Some of these teams could provide stern challenges for Madrid, although they would likely be seen as favorites against most of these sides.
- Al Hilal (KSA): The Saudi Pro League side has made major strides in recent years, spending heavily in the transfer market with the acquisitions of players like Aleksandar Mitrovic, Ruben Neves, and Neymar. Al Hilal will present a formidable test for Madrid, especially given their ambitions to compete with Europe’s elite.
- Botafogo (BRA): The Brazilian side could prove to be a difficult opponent, particularly with the flair and creativity typical of teams from South America.
- Monterrey (MEX) and Leon (MEX): Both teams are strong from the CONCACAF region, with Monterrey being one of Mexico’s top clubs. While Real Madrid would still be favored to win, these teams bring the kind of unpredictability that could make for interesting encounters.
- Al Ahly (EGY): The Egyptian giants, who have a storied history in African club football, could provide an exciting test. Their resilience and tactical discipline could make them a tricky opponent.
- Boca Juniors (ARG): A potential clash with Argentina’s Boca Juniors would bring a historic rivalry back to the fold. Both clubs have a storied history in global club football, and this matchup would undoubtedly captivate fans worldwide.
- Ulsan Hyundai (KOR): The South Korean side may not have the same global renown, but their organized approach and determination could pose a significant challenge.
Potential Pot 4 Opponents: The Wild Cards
Pot 4 contains a mix of teams from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and North America, with some exciting potential matchups for Real Madrid. The commercial appeal of a fixture involving Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami would undoubtedly make it one of the most talked-about games in the competition.
- Inter Miami (USA): The presence of Messi and other high-profile stars like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba could make this one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament. However, Madrid will be wary of the danger posed by the Argentine, who has been a nemesis for the Spanish giants in El Clásico.
- Pachuca (MEX): The Mexican side, led by veteran Salomón Rondón, could provide a solid test, although they would likely be considered underdogs against Madrid.
- Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN): The 2022 AFC Champions League winners could offer a stern challenge, particularly given their rich tradition in Asian club football.
- Al Ain (UAE): The UAE side could prove a tricky test, but Madrid would be expected to come through this matchup relatively comfortably.
- Esperance de Tunis (TUN) and Mamelodi Sundowns (ZAF): Both teams have strong African footballing traditions and could provide tough opposition, but Real Madrid’s quality would likely see them advance.
The Road Ahead for Madrid
While the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be a unique challenge, Real Madrid will enter the tournament as one of the favorites. The squad’s experience, combined with their stellar record in international club competitions, gives them a strong chance of success.
With the tournament featuring top teams from across the globe, Madrid will face a variety of exciting and challenging opponents. However, Carlo Ancelotti’s men will likely back themselves to overcome any team in their path as they bid to add another international title to their illustrious trophy cabinet.
Stay tuned for more updates as the draw approaches, and don’t miss our detailed coverage on who Madrid could face in their quest for a fifth Club World Cup title.
