The newly expanded 32-team format of the FIFA Club World Cup has been met with both awe and criticism, from weather conditions (extreme heat or impending storms) to patchy attendances.
However, the quarterfinals delivered exactly what football fans crave: excitement, unpredictability, and a hint of controversy.
⚽PSG 2–0 Bayern: Brave Parisians Bring Bayern to Knees:
In Atlanta, Paris Saint‑Germain produced a blockbuster display to knock out Bayern Munich. Swiss teenager Désiré Doué smashed home the opener in the 78th minute, reacting fastest to a Harry Kane error, before a stoppage-time close-range finish from Ousmane Dembélé sealed a 2–0 triumph.
But the match’s spotlight was stolen by tragedy: Bayern’s Jamal Musiala clashed with PSG keeper Donnarumma and sustained a fractured fibula and serious ankle ligament damage during a 50‑50 in the box.
PSG’s shot‑stopper was visibly shaken, quickly seeking support from the club psychologist and later emotionally apologising to Musiala.
⚽Real Madrid 3–2 Borussia Dortmund: Vintage Madrid Drama:
Meanwhile in New Jersey, Real Madrid clung on to edge Dortmund 3–2. Leading for most of the game, Los Blancos saw their advantage threatened during a frenetic finale that tested nerves.
The result sets up a titanic semifinal clash against PSG — a replay of recent UEFA KO stage clashes that fans have been dreaming of.
⚽Chelsea 2–1 Palmeiras: Own-Goal Springboards Bluchers:
Across Philadelphia, Chelsea advanced thanks to a tightly-contested 2–1 win over Palmeiras. The Blues dominated proceedings, grabbed a first-half lead, and recovered control after Estêvão’s equaliser for Palmeiras early in the second half.
An own-goal in the 83rd minute from Giay confirmed Chelsea’s progression, a result that felt both deserved and slightly fortunate. The million-dollar squad, under Maresca, got the job done despite moments of vulnerability.
⚽Fluminense 2–1 Al‑Hilal: Brazilian Resilience Shines:
The biggest narrative surprise: Fluminense’s dominant 2–1 win over Al-Hilal in Orlando. The Brazilian side, underestimated by many, showcased defensive steel — recording three clean sheets to date — and clinical finishing.
Veteran goalkeeper Fábio (44) has been a wall, while Hércules, the official Man‑of‑the‑Match, provided decisive contributions to ensure the victory. Under Renato Gaúcho, Flu’s tactical discipline is shining bright.
❓What's Next? Setting the Semifinals Stage:
Chelsea vs Fluminense on July 8 in New Jersey — a clash of a Brazilian upstart vs English power. Thiago Silva returns full of emotion and experience against his former club.
PSG vs Real Madrid on July 9 — the marquee rematch, both continental and now global champions, ready to fight for a spot in the July 13 final.
Final Take: Four Left, One to Go:
From eight contenders, only four remain — three European giants, and a spirited Brazilian team rewriting expectations. The quarterfinals delivered high stakes and high drama, balancing football’s beauty with the shadow of injury.
Next, two highly anticipated semifinals under blazing summer skies. Will PSG vs Madrid reignite age‑old rivalries? Can Fluminense, powered by veteran leadership and fan passion, overcome Chelsea’s money team? Answers await on July 8 & 9.
Stay tuned — from shock victors to storied legacies, the story continues.
🔗You can check out and follow the FIFA CWC semis & final here on MSport.
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