KLIK SAJA - Still riding high from their long-awaited UEFA Champions League triumph, Luis Enrique’s Paris Saint-Germain head across the Atlantic as firm favorites to lift the first title of the newly revamped Club World Cup.
But the road to glory won't be easy for Les Parisiens, who must navigate a competitive Group B featuring Diego Simeone’s resilient Atletico Madrid, along with two dark horses—Botafogo and Seattle Sounders—both ready to upset the odds.
PSG and Atletico, two of Europe’s elite, may be dreaming of a well-earned vacation after a grueling season. However, with both teams tipped to reach the knockout stages, that break may need to wait a little longer.
That said, PSG's path isn't entirely smooth.
The French champions are dealing with fresh injury concerns in attack, with Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola potentially sidelined.
If Atletico can maintain consistency, PSG might have to settle for second place in the group.
Interestingly, PSG aren’t the only continental champions in the group.
Botafogo, winners of the 2024 Copa Libertadores, bring South American flair into the mix. However, the Brazilian side will need something truly extraordinary to finish in the top two.
Despite their continental success, Botafogo’s early 2025 form has been inconsistent. The same goes for Seattle Sounders, whose MLS performances have been far from convincing.
Both American teams are expected to battle it out for third place, with Botafogo slightly favored thanks to a more disciplined and organized back line.
One player to watch is Julian Alvarez, who scored 29 goals in his debut season with Atletico Madrid. Having previously thrived in the sweltering conditions of American stadiums, he’s tipped to dominate Group B—and could even challenge for the tournament’s Golden Boot.
Dembélé, once a Ballon d'Or contender, was expected to be Alvarez’s key rival. However, a quadriceps injury may keep him out of the first two matches.
As a precaution, Luis Enrique may choose to rest him until the knockout stage.
PSG vs. Atletico Madrid on Matchday 1 is arguably the most anticipated clash of the group stage.
