Latest news with #FIFAWorldCup2026


Economic Times
3 days ago
- Sport
- Economic Times
FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Full schedule, groups, and key fixtures unveiled for U.S. debut
Tournament Structure: Expanded Format Mirrors 2026 World Cup Live Events Key Dates for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group Stage: June 14 – June 26 Round of 16: June 28 – July 1 Quarterfinals: July 4 – July 5 Semifinals: July 8 – July 9 Final: July 13 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey Fixture Highlights: Messi, Ronaldo, and Global Icons on Display How to Watch the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Group A: Al Ahly, FC Porto, SE Palmeiras, Inter Miami Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders Group C: Bayern Munich, Auckland City, Boca Juniors, SL Benfica Group D: Chelsea, Flamengo, Espérance de Tunis, LAFC/Club América Group E: Inter Milan, River Plate, CF Monterrey, Urawa Red Diamonds Group F: Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense, Ulsan HD, Mamelodi Sundowns Group G: Manchester City, Juventus, Al Ain FC, Wydad AC Group H: Real Madrid, Al Hilal, CF Pachuca, FC Salzburg American Audiences to Witness High-Stakes Club Football FAQs When and where will the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 take place? How many teams are competing? (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel The world's premier club football showdown, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, is all set to kick off in the United States, marking the tournament's largest-ever edition. For the first time in its history, the FIFA Club World Cup schedule features 32 elite teams from 20 countries, competing across American venues in what promises to be a landmark moment for global football on U.S. soil. The expanded format begins officially with a play-in fixture on May 31, featuring LAFC and Club América, vying for the final spot in the tournament's group main phase of the tournament begins on June 14, leading up to the grand final on July 13 at the iconic MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, as mentioned in a report by USA a nod to the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 structure, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup introduces eight groups with four clubs each. The top two from each group will progress to a traditional knockout format beginning with the Round of clubs, including Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Chelsea are among the confirmed participants. Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders represent Major League 12 clubs hail from Europe, with additional representation from South America, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and CONCACAF regions, as per a report by USA group stage begins with a high-profile clash between Al Ahly and Inter Miami on June 14 in Miami. The very next day, Bayern Munich faces Auckland City, while Paris Saint-Germain meets Atlético Madrid in speculation swirling around a potential transfer involving Cristiano Ronaldo, interest in the tournament continues to mount. Matches will take place in cities such as Seattle, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Orlando, and Washington, D.C., ensuring nationwide fan match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will be streamed live and globally accessible via the tournament's official broadcasting Stage Overview: A Diverse SlateUnlike past summer exhibitions, this edition of the FIFA Club World Cup schedule features competitive fixtures with silverware at stake. With clubs arriving at full strength and national pride on the line, the 2025 tournament is expected to ignite fervour among U.S. fans and boost football's footprint in North global titans take to American pitches this summer, the stage is set for a historic edition of club football's most prestigious global tournament begins May 31 with a play-in match and officially runs from June 14 to July 13, 2025, across major U.S. cities. The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.A record 32 clubs from 20 countries are participating in the expanded format.


Time of India
3 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Full schedule, groups, and key fixtures unveiled for U.S. debut
The world's premier club football showdown, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 , is all set to kick off in the United States, marking the tournament's largest-ever edition. For the first time in its history, the FIFA Club World Cup schedule features 32 elite teams from 20 countries, competing across American venues in what promises to be a landmark moment for global football on U.S. soil. The expanded format begins officially with a play-in fixture on May 31, featuring LAFC and Club América, vying for the final spot in the tournament's group stage. The main phase of the tournament begins on June 14, leading up to the grand final on July 13 at the iconic MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, as mentioned in a report by USA Today. Tournament Structure: Expanded Format Mirrors 2026 World Cup In a nod to the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 structure, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup introduces eight groups with four clubs each. The top two from each group will progress to a traditional knockout format beginning with the Round of 16. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Cadou Perfect pentru Copii sau Părinți - Tabletă Practică! LY Cumpără acum Undo Major clubs, including Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Chelsea are among the confirmed participants. Lionel Messi's Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders represent Major League Soccer. Notably, 12 clubs hail from Europe, with additional representation from South America, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and CONCACAF regions, as per a report by USA Today. Live Events Key Dates for FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group Stage: June 14 – June 26 Round of 16: June 28 – July 1 Quarterfinals: July 4 – July 5 Semifinals: July 8 – July 9 Final: July 13 at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey Fixture Highlights: Messi, Ronaldo, and Global Icons on Display The group stage begins with a high-profile clash between Al Ahly and Inter Miami on June 14 in Miami. The very next day, Bayern Munich faces Auckland City, while Paris Saint-Germain meets Atlético Madrid in California. With speculation swirling around a potential transfer involving Cristiano Ronaldo, interest in the tournament continues to mount. Matches will take place in cities such as Seattle, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Orlando, and Washington, D.C., ensuring nationwide fan engagement. How to Watch the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup Every match of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will be streamed live and globally accessible via the tournament's official broadcasting partner. Group Stage Overview: A Diverse Slate Group A: Al Ahly, FC Porto, SE Palmeiras, Inter Miami Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Atlético Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders Group C: Bayern Munich, Auckland City, Boca Juniors, SL Benfica Group D: Chelsea, Flamengo, Espérance de Tunis, LAFC/Club América Group E: Inter Milan, River Plate, CF Monterrey, Urawa Red Diamonds Group F: Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense, Ulsan HD, Mamelodi Sundowns Group G: Manchester City, Juventus, Al Ain FC, Wydad AC Group H: Real Madrid, Al Hilal, CF Pachuca, FC Salzburg American Audiences to Witness High-Stakes Club Football Unlike past summer exhibitions, this edition of the FIFA Club World Cup schedule features competitive fixtures with silverware at stake. With clubs arriving at full strength and national pride on the line, the 2025 tournament is expected to ignite fervour among U.S. fans and boost football's footprint in North America. As global titans take to American pitches this summer, the stage is set for a historic edition of club football's most prestigious global event. FAQs When and where will the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 take place? The tournament begins May 31 with a play-in match and officially runs from June 14 to July 13, 2025, across major U.S. cities. The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. How many teams are competing? A record 32 clubs from 20 countries are participating in the expanded format.


Miami Herald
4 days ago
- Miami Herald
New relief for international travelers to the U.S. amid Trump-era restrictions
As immigration controls tighten under the Trump administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has released a series of announcements that could make travel easier for international visitors this summer. The federal agency is implementing several measures to streamline the entry process at U.S. airports ahead of a busy season that is expected to bring millions of travelers from around the world. CBP is actively encouraging international passengers to take advantage of mobile tools designed to make their arrival to the U.S. faster and more efficient. CBP technology streamlines entry process for international travelers 'CBP is committed to enhancing national security while streamlining lawful travel,' said CBP Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino. 'By leveraging advanced technologies and mobile applications, we are transforming inspections at airports into a seamless, touchless process, enabling faster risk identification and efficient processing of legitimate visitors,' she added in a news release. This summer also marks the debut of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, scheduled from June 14 to July 13. The tournament, hosted for the first time in the United States, is expected to draw millions of international visitors — alongside the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. Together, the events could bring in up to 10 million foreign travelers, according to CBP estimates. Read more: Skip the REAL ID and the passport: This $65 card can get you through TSA in 2025 CBP's modernization efforts include Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), which uses auto-capture photo technology to conduct a complete customs assessment: biometric verification, eligibility checks and enforcement review — before a traveler even meets a CBP officer. Another option, Seamless Border Entry (SBE), combines the Trusted Traveler Programs framework with 'On the Move' technology. This system allows Global Entry members to move through inspection with little or no interaction with a CBP officer, depending on officer discretion, authorities said. SBE is currently available at select airports, including Miami International, Los Angeles International, Washington Dulles, Chicago O'Hare, Newark Liberty, George Bush Intercontinental and Toronto Pearson. CBP also offers a suite of free mobile applications, available through the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or via the CBP Mobile Apps Directory. These tools allow eligible travelers to submit passport information in advance and speed up their inspection upon arrival. U.S. entry requirements in 2025: What visa waiver travelers need to know Travelers entering under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) can use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) mobile app to submit applications via smartphones, tablets, or other mobile devices. ESTA is also available online for those unable to download the app. Regardless of how travelers enter the U.S., CBP reminds all visitors that they must meet legal requirements, present proper documentation, undergo background checks and inspections, and comply with the terms of their visa or authorization. Read more: Just days after Trump's inauguration, USCIS updates a crucial U.S. green card requirement 'If statutes or visa terms are violated, travelers may be subject to detention and removal,' the agency warns. 'A visa is a privilege, not a right, and only those who respect our laws and follow the proper procedures will be welcomed.' Throughout the Trump administration, U.S. embassies and federal agencies have reiterated the importance of adhering to the 90-day limit allowed under ESTA. Domestically, CBP continues to enforce stricter identity controls for U.S.-bound travelers through the implementation of REAL ID, which went into effect on May 7, 2025, for boarding international flights.


Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
FIFA pays tribute to Shaheen Shah Afridi among footballing greats
FIFA has paid tribute to Pakistani pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, featuring him alongside football greats Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Luka Modrić in a social media post celebrating global athletes associated with the iconic number 10 jersey. The FIFA World Cup Instagram account posted an image on Tuesday highlighting Afridi with three of football's biggest stars—Messi, Neymar and Modrić—under the caption, 'The iconic.' While Afridi is known for his performances on the cricket field, his inclusion in the tribute signifies a crossover of global sporting recognition. There is speculation online from fans that the gesture was part of a wider effort to increase fan engagement in Pakistan ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, set to take place in the US. Localised campaigns are reportedly in development to connect with sports fans across different regions. The recognition comes during a high point in Afridi's cricketing career. The 25-year-old fast bowler led Lahore Qalandars to a third HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) title, making him the most successful captain in the league's history. Afridi's Qalandars chased down 202 to defeat Quetta Gladiators in the final at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium. Sikandar Raza secured the win with a six and a four in the final over, finishing the match with one ball to spare. Already the only captain to claim consecutive HBL PSL titles in 2022 and 2023, Afridi now holds the distinction of lifting the trophy three times—more than any other captain in the competition. Captains with most HBL PSL titles: Shaheen Afridi (Lahore Qalandars) – 3 Misbah-ul-Haq (Islamabad United) – 1 Darren Sammy (Peshawar Zalmi) – 1 JP Duminy (Islamabad United) – 1 Sarfaraz Ahmed (Quetta Gladiators) – 1 Imad Wasim (Karachi Kings) – 1 Mohammad Rizwan (Multan Sultans) – 1 Shadab Khan (Islamabad United) – 1 FIFA's post places Afridi in elite company, furthering his rise as a globally recognised athlete across sporting codes.


Winnipeg Free Press
6 days ago
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
New Zealand returns to action in Toronto after punching 2026 World Cup ticket
TORONTO – Michael Boxall has scored just one goal for New Zealand, but it was one of consequence. Rising high, the Minnesota United defender headed home a corner from substitute Francis de Vries in the 61st minute to open the scoring March 24 in 86th-ranked New Zealand's 3-0 win over No. 151 New Caledonia in the Oceania Football Confederation qualifying final at Auckland's Eden Park. 'It took a long time to get there,' a chuckling Boxall, who made his New Zealand debut in 2011, said of opening his scoring account in his 55th international appearance. The victory sent New Zealand to the 2026 World Cup, its third trip to the soccer showcase after 1982 and 2010. The All Whites' first games since their qualifying success come at the four-team Canadian Shield Tournament, against the 41st-ranked Ivory Coast on June 7 and No. 25 Ukraine on June 10 at Toronto's BMO Field. New Zealand won't play host Canada, ranked 30th in the world, at the tournament. 'To face two top 50 sides, in a tournament situation, in one of the FIFA World Cup 2026 host venues, is the perfect challenge for us,' said New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley. The 36-year-old Boxall, whose long throw-ins add to the attack options for both club and country, relishes the chance to represent New Zealand again. 'Obviously competition in Oceania isn't the stiffest but New Caledonia made it a tough test for us,' said Boxall. 'And yes, we definitely excited to get back (in action) now that we've punched our ticket for 2026.' And like Canada, he welcomes the chances to face elite opposition at the new Toronto tournament. 'The last few (FIFA international) windows, we've kind of only been up against teams from our confederation,' Boxall said in an interview. 'So we need to prepare ourselves to play against world-class opposition … It will be a huge step up and it will be a good marker to see where we're at and what we need to work on heading towards the World Cup.' New Zealand failed to get out of the group stage in its previous trips to the World Cup. In 1982, the All Whites lost all three games to Scotland (5-2), the Soviet Union (3-0) and Brazil (4-0). In 2010, they fared better, drawing Slovakia (1-1), Italy (1-1) and Paraguay (0-0) but still went home early. New Zealand is unbeaten in seven matches, having won six straight — including five in World Cup qualifying — since drawing the United States in an international friendly. Its last loss was 3-0 to Mexico in a friendly at the Rose Bowl on Sept. 7. The famous win over New Caledonia came some 33 months after New Zealand lost 1-0 to Costa Rica in an intercontinental playoff in Doha, Qatar, for the last berth at the 2022 World Cup. Boxall started his MLS career with the Vancouver Whitecaps, who selected him first overall in the 2011 MLS Supplemental Draft out of University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) where he was the Big West Defender of the Year in 2010. In 2012, Boxall he returned home to join Wellington Phoenix in the Australian A-League. In 2105, he joined South Africa's SuperSport United, helping the team to back-to-back Nedbank Cup titles. He returned to MLS in 2017 with Minnesota United, also home to Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair and forward Tani Oluwaseyi. Playing for the All Whites in Toronto comes with a bonus of reduced travel time. Boxall is a road warrior when it comes to playing for New Zealand. 'The last window I missed a flight on the way to New Zealand and had a flight cancelled on the way back,' he said. 'So I'm not seeing too many flight issues in the hour-and-half trip of whatever it is from here to Toronto (one hour 58 minutes in actuality). So that will be nice.' Bazeley's 23-man Toronto roster features five changes to the squad called up for the Oceania Qualifiers. Saint-Etienne attacker Ben Old returns from injury with Portland Timbers defender Finn Surman also back after missing the previous international window by agreement with his MLS club. There are recalls for goalkeeper Nik Tzanev (Northampton Town) and defenders Callan Elliot (Auckland FC) and Bill Tuiloma (Charlotte FC). New Zealand is slated to face Norway in October in Oslo in an international friendly that will likely feature two top scorers from England's Premier League in All Whites captain Chris Wood, who plays his club football for Nottingham Forest, and Norway star Erling Haaland (Manchester City). With New Zealand enjoying its highest world ranking since October 2013, Boxall believes his team is indeed on the rise. 'The talent's there. And it's just about us getting all on the same page against teams that are ranked higher than us and doing the job against them.' Boxall, wife Libby and their two kids split their off-season between Minnesota and their home in New Zealand. Winnipeg Jets Game Days On Winnipeg Jets game days, hockey writers Mike McIntyre and Ken Wiebe send news, notes and quotes from the morning skate, as well as injury updates and lineup decisions. Arrives a few hours prior to puck drop. New Zealand Kosta Barbarouses, Wellington Phoenix (New Zealand); Joe Bell Viking FK (Norway); Tyler Bindon, Reading (England, on loan from Nottingham Forest); Michael Boxall, Minnesota United (MLS); Liberato Cacace, Empoli (Italy); Max Crocombe, Burton Albion (England); Callan Elliot, Auckland FC (New Zealand); Matt Garbett, NAC Breda (the Netherlands); Eli Just, SKN St. Pölten (Austria, on loan from Horsens); Callum McCowatt, Silkeborg IF (Denmark); Ben Old, AS Saint-Etienne (France); Alex Paulsen, Auckland FC (New Zealand, on loan from AFC Bournemouth); Nando Pijnaker, Auckland FC (New Zealand); Alex Rufer, Wellington Phoenix (New Zealand); Sarpreet Singh, U.D. Leiria (Portugal); Tommy Smith, Auckland FC (New Zealand); Marko Stamenic, Olympiacos (Greece, on loan from Nottingham Forest); Finn Surman, Portland Timbers (MLS); Bill Tuiloma, Charlotte FC (MLS); Nik Tzanev, Northampton Town (England); Francis de Vries, Auckland FC (New Zealand); Ben Waine, Mansfield Town (England, on loan from Plymouth Argyle); Chris Wood, Nottingham Forest (England). — This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2025.