Will Messi’s PSG Reunion and Real Madrid vs Juventus Steal the Show in the FIFA Club World Cup Round of 16?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi returns to face PSG after his departure in 2023.
- Real Madrid could meet Juventus in a critical knockout clash.
- Intense matchups between European and South American teams.
- Live streaming available for free on DAZN.
- Matches starting June 28 at the Lincoln Financial Field.
New Delhi, June 28 (NationPress) The enhanced FIFA Club World Cup is poised to transition into its knockout stage on June 28, with the Round of 16 commencing as Brazilian teams Palmeiras and Botafogo take to the pitch at the Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.
The most anticipated event is undoubtedly Lionel Messi's first encounter with Paris Saint-Germain since his departure in 2023. This marks a significant moment for the football legend, who made headlines when he left Barcelona in 2021 to join the French club, where he played 75 matches. Should Real Madrid prevail against Juventus, Messi might face his old rival for the 48th time in the semifinals.
In another gripping matchup, Al Hilal, representing Asia, will challenge the reigning champions Manchester City, presenting a formidable test for the Saudi Pro League team. Additionally, former English champions Chelsea will clash with two-time European Cup winners Benfica, which will also reunite Enzo Fernandes with his former club following a record transfer fee exceeding 100 million Pounds.
German powerhouse FC Bayern Munich, who finished second in Group C after a loss to Benfica, will face Brazilian club Flamengo in a pre-quarterfinal. Meanwhile, Inter Milan will go head-to-head with another Brazilian side, Fluminense, and Borussia Dortmund is expected to have a relatively straightforward challenge against Monterrey from Mexico.
Here’s the Round of 16 fixture schedule (All times are in IST):
June 28 – Palmeiras vs Botafogo – 9:30 PM
June 29 – Benfica vs Chelsea – 1:30 AM
June 29 – Paris Saint-Germain vs Inter Miami – 9:30 PM
June 30 – Flamengo vs Bayern Munich – 1:30 AM
July 1 – Inter Milan vs Fluminense – 12:30 AM
July 1 – Manchester City vs Al Hilal – 6:30 AM
July 2 – Real Madrid vs Juventus – 12:30 AM
July 2 – Dortmund vs Monterrey – 6:30 AM
All FIFA Club World Cup matches will be streamed live on DAZN for free, although the tournament will not be broadcast in India.