Match Preview
Bayern Munich vs Auckland City: FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Preview
Date: June 15 | Venue: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati | Kick-off: 18:00 CET
German champions Bayern Munich kick off their FIFA Club World Cup 2025 journey with a highly anticipated first-round clash against New Zealand’s Auckland City.
Fresh off securing the 2024/25 Bundesliga title, Bayern enter the tournament as strong favorites, looking to add another piece of silverware to their prestigious collection. Despite the underdog status of their opponents, the Bavarians are expected to take nothing for granted in this opening tie.
Auckland City, the most dominant team in Oceania with 11 OFC Champions League titles in the last 13 years, arrive in the U.S. with immense excitement and a chance to test themselves against the elite. Despite being a semi-professional club, they bring heart and hunger to the global stage.
Striker Angus Kilkolly summed up the squad’s emotions, calling it a “dream group” that includes European giants Bayern, Portuguese heavyweights Benfica, and Argentina’s Boca Juniors. “To be on the same pitch is a little bit crazy,” he admitted.
For Bayern, the tournament also provides a chance to reintegrate key players. Jamal Musiala and Dayot Upamecano have returned to training after lengthy injury spells and could see gradual minutes throughout the campaign. Summer arrivals Jonathan Tah and Tom Bischof are both registered and available, adding depth and fresh energy to Thomas Tuchel’s squad.
Given the disparity in quality and resources, Bayern are heavy favorites to progress. But Auckland City will be aiming to soak up the experience — and maybe even spring a surprise on football’s biggest club stage.