MIAMI – There are underdogs in every sport — especially in soccer — and Inter Miami will be one of them in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
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One team from France has the ability to spend over $100 million a year to sign new players, while a team from Africa may have a limited budget to work with.
If those two teams were to face each other in a competition, the French team, on paper, would be expected to win. However, in sports, outcomes can vary, and upsets are possible.
The FIFA Club World Cup gives teams from around the world the opportunity to compete against Europe’s top clubs. All 32 teams competing in this new format have different motivations for wanting to win the trophy.
For example, 2025 Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain could add one more trophy to their historic season.
Real Madrid, one of the most successful clubs in the world, could aim for its first title of the year after a disappointing campaign.
South American teams also have the chance to compete on a global stage. Brazilian club Flamengo and Argentinian club Boca Juniors could challenge opponents with its physical style of play.
Teams in this tournament are competing not only for the title of world champion but also for substantial prize money that could support club development. The winner can earn up to $125 million in prize money by winning every match. The total prize pool stands at $1 billion.
Performance-based awards are also available. Each group stage win will earn a team $2 million. For clubs like Real Madrid, that may be a modest amount, but for a team like Egyptian side Al Ahly FC, it could contribute significantly to club resources.
Major League Soccer teams such as Inter Miami and LAFC will also have the chance to show how it could measure up internationally.
The FIFA Club World Cup is more than a standard tournament. It offers a setting where smaller clubs can compete against well-funded teams, and where matches between global powerhouses are also likely.
For clubs like Manchester City and Bayern Munich, a win over an Asian team may be expected. But a win for a club like Urawa Red Diamonds of Japan over Borussia Dortmund would be significant for the team and its supporters.
There is something at stake for all 32 teams, and every game has the potential to make a global impact.
