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Expanded Club World Cup Opens With Manchester City Win and Alonso’s Real Madrid Debut

Group play in the US-hosted, 32-team Club World Cup kicked off June 18, featuring Manchester City’s victory over Wydad AC alongside Xabi Alonso’s debut as Real Madrid coach.

Overview

  • The month-long tournament runs from June 14 to July 13 across multiple US stadiums and offers free global streaming of all 63 matches on DAZN.
  • Manchester City began their title defence on June 18 with a convincing win over Wydad AC in Philadelphia, welcoming back Rodri and showcasing summer signings.
  • Xabi Alonso led Real Madrid in his first competitive outing against Al-Hilal at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, fielding new recruits Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.
  • European heavyweights including Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Juventus are among the 32 clubs vying for a place in the knockout rounds, which start on June 28.
  • A record $125 million in prize money underlines FIFA’s aim to position the revamped Club World Cup as a premier summer competition ahead of the 2026 World Cup.