Bayern Munich and PSG Reach Club World Cup Quarterfinals as European Teams Dominate
The last weekend of June brought excitement to football fans around the world as the FIFA Club World Cup moved into the quarterfinal stage. European giants Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have both booked their places in the next round, raising hopes of a European takeover in the tournament.
During the group stage, North and South American teams like Inter Miami, Palmeiras, Fluminense, Botafogo, Flamengo, and Monterrey thrilled supporters with entertaining football. But as the knockout stage begins, the pressure is now on, and the American teams are finding it tougher.
**Knockout Round Begins with Drama**
The round of 16 kicked off with a thrilling all-Brazilian clash between Botafogo and Palmeiras. The match went into extra time, and Palmeiras won thanks to a powerful goal by Paulinho, assisted by Colombia’s Richard Ríos. Palmeiras now move on to the quarterfinals.
Chelsea also made a strong statement, beating Benfica 4-1 in extra time. Goals from Reece James, Christopher Nkunku, Pedro Neto, and Dewsbury-Hall sealed the win. Benfica’s Ángel Di María scored a penalty, his fourth goal of the tournament, making him the top scorer so far. Chelsea will now face Palmeiras in what promises to be an exciting quarterfinal match.
Sunday’s Big Matches
On Sunday, PSG dominated Inter Miami with a 4-0 win. Joao Neves scored twice, Tomás Avilés scored an own goal, and Achraf Hakimi added a late goal to seal the win for the French champions.
Later that evening, Bayern Munich beat Flamengo 4-2 in a thrilling match held in the United States. Harry Kane scored twice, while Leon Goretzka added a fourth after an own goal from Flamengo’s Erick Pulgar. Flamengo’s Jorginho and Gerson scored, but it wasn’t enough to stop Bayern.
Now, fans are looking forward to a huge European battle as Bayern Munich and PSG prepare to face each other in the quarterfinals.
So far, Palmeiras is the only confirmed team from the Americas in the next round. The final spots will be decided in the upcoming matches between Inter Milan vs. Fluminense and another tie involving Monterrey.
