The excitement of the FIFA Club World Cup reaches its peak in the third round of Group C, with Benfica facing Bayern Munich on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 3:00 PM (Brasília time). The match takes place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, USA, and promises to be one of the most competitive in the group stage. With live broadcasts on SporTV, CazéTV (via YouTube), Globoplay, and DAZN, Brazilian fans can follow every moment. Bayern, already qualified for the round of 16, aims to secure the group lead, while Benfica fights for a knockout stage spot against Boca Juniors. French referee François Letexier will officiate, supported by European assistants and VAR.
The match carries significant historical weight, as the two teams have faced off multiple times in continental competitions, with a clear advantage for the Germans. Bayern Munich, led by coach Vincent Kompany, enters with a 100% record after convincing wins over Auckland City (10-0) and Boca Juniors (2-1). Benfica, under Bruno Lage, has four points, with a strong victory against Auckland City (6-0) and a draw against Boca Juniors (2-2). The high temperatures in Charlotte, potentially exceeding 40°C, will pose an additional challenge for both teams.
- Points at stake: Bayern needs only a draw to secure first place in the group.
- Key absences: Benfica will miss Belotti and Florentino, while Bayern has doubts over Musiala and Stanisic.
- Favorable history: In 13 previous encounters, Bayern won 10 and drew three, never losing to Benfica.
Expectations are high for a tactical battle, with Bayern relying on the offensive prowess of Harry Kane and Michael Olise, while Benfica counts on Ángel Di María and Vangelis Pavlidis to pull off an upset. The European rivalry gains a new chapter on American soil, with the world’s eyes on Charlotte.
Duel for first place in the group. 💪
— FC Bayern (@FCBayernEN) June 22, 2025
On Tuesday, the 3rd group game against Benfica awaits! 👊
Watch live & for free on DAZN: https://t.co/WE5HKuwn1c 📺#FCBayern #FIFACWC #TakeItToTheWorld pic.twitter.com/DWKv92Zq2g
Head-to-head history
The clash between Benfica and Bayern Munich is no stranger to European football. The teams have met 13 times in competitions like the UEFA Champions League, with the Germans dominating. Bayern has 10 wins and three draws, scoring 36 goals to Benfica’s seven. Their most recent encounter, in the 2024/25 Champions League group stage, ended in a 1-0 Bayern victory, with a goal from Jamal Musiala.
This history looms large for Benfica, which seeks to break a frustrating streak. The Portuguese side, known for its tradition and passionate fanbase, has never defeated Bayern in official competitions. In Charlotte, Bruno Lage’s team has a chance to rewrite this narrative, but the task is daunting against a side blending experience, talent, and tactical consistency.
Team form
Bayern Munich arrives brimming with confidence. Their thrashing of Auckland City in the opener showcased their attacking firepower, with Harry Kane and Michael Olise combining for five goals in the tournament. The 2-1 win over Boca Juniors required resilience but underscored Kompany’s team’s ability to overcome challenges. The only concern is Jamal Musiala’s fitness, as he recovers from a recent injury and may not be at full strength.
Benfica, meanwhile, is enjoying a solid campaign but faces hurdles. The draw against Boca Juniors, secured by a late Nicolás Otamendi header, showed their grit. A 6-0 rout of Auckland City, with two goals from Ángel Di María, boosted morale. However, the absence of Florentino Luís, a key midfielder, may limit Lage’s tactical options.
- Bayern’s numbers: 12 goals scored and one conceded in two World Cup matches.
- Benfica’s standout: Ángel Di María leads the team with three goals in the tournament.
- Heat factor: Charlotte’s high temperatures will demand physical adaptation from both sides.
- Qualification at stake: A draw ensures Benfica’s advancement, but a loss could complicate matters if Boca Juniors wins.
Stars on the pitch
The matchup features world-class talent. For Bayern, Harry Kane is the main attacking threat, with his finishing and playmaking ability. Michael Olise, with five goal involvements in the tournament, has been a revelation, while Joshua Kimmich anchors the midfield with precision. The defensive solidity, led by Dayot Upamecano, is another asset.
For Benfica, Ángel Di María, at 37, remains a pivotal figure. The Argentine, who announced this will be his final competition with the club before returning to Rosario Central, aims to leave his mark. Vangelis Pavlidis, with 29 goals across all competitions this season, is the goal-scoring hope, while Nicolás Otamendi brings defensive experience. Renato Sanches, a former Bayern player, could play a key role in midfield.
The stage
Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte is one of 12 venues chosen for the 2025 Club World Cup. With a capacity of about 74,000, the stadium is known for hosting NFL games and major events. The USA’s selection as host reflects FIFA’s push to grow football in North America, especially ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Charlotte, in North Carolina, is buzzing with the arrival of fans from around the globe. The local Portuguese community is set to make noise for Benfica, while Bayern’s passionate supporters will also be present. A vibrant crowd is expected, despite the forecast of high temperatures.
Tactical breakdown
Vincent Kompany is likely to stick with Bayern’s attacking 4-2-3-1, emphasizing possession and high pressing. Musiala’s potential absence could see Thomas Müller step in, bringing experience and tactical nous. The defensive stability, with Manuel Neuer in goal, will be key to neutralizing Benfica’s attacks.
Bruno Lage opts for a more cautious 4-2-3-1, with Di María and Aktürköglu exploiting the flanks and Pavlidis as the focal point up top. Florentino Luís’s absence may overburden Renato Sanches and Leandro Barreiro in midfield, tasked with containing Kimmich and Goretzka. The defense, led by Otamendi, must stay sharp against Kane and Olise.
Match significance
The game is make-or-break for Benfica, which needs at least a draw to secure qualification without relying on the Boca Juniors vs. Auckland City result. A win, though unlikely given the history, could see the Portuguese side top the group—a remarkable feat. For Bayern, the goal is to maintain their unbeaten run and cement their status as title favorites.
The rivalry, combined with the quality of both squads, promises a spectacle worthy of the Club World Cup. FIFA, which heavily invested in revamping the tournament, hopes matches like this will draw global attention and elevate the competition’s prestige.
Broadcast and accessibility
Brazilian fans have multiple viewing options. SporTV will air the match on pay-TV, while CazéTV offers a free YouTube stream. Globoplay and DAZN provide streaming access, ensuring wide reach. The broadcast will highlight the game’s historical significance, focusing on the star players.
Real-time coverage will also be available on platforms like SofaScore and FIFA’s official apps, offering detailed stats like possession, shots on goal, and individual player performance. For those in Charlotte, tickets remain available via Ticketmaster, with prices varying by seating area.
Match trivia
- Defensive record: Bayern has conceded just one goal in two matches, boasting a near-impenetrable backline.
- Di María’s farewell: The Argentine is playing his final games for Benfica, adding extra motivation.
- Kompany’s debut: This is Vincent Kompany’s first Club World Cup as a coach, chasing his first international title.
- Palhinha’s personal duel: Bayern’s João Palhinha faces the club his family supports, making it a special occasion.
Preparation and logistics
FIFA’s detailed planning ensured smooth logistics. Both teams arrived in Charlotte early to acclimate to the heat and time zone. Bayern, having played in Cincinnati and Miami, is used to tournament travel, while Benfica, after games in Miami and Orlando, faces its third US city.
Final training sessions were open to the media, with Musiala’s recovery at Bayern and Di María’s confidence at Benfica drawing attention. FIFA implemented strict security measures at Bank of America Stadium, including digital-only tickets via an app, eliminating physical tickets.
Fan expectations
Benfica’s “encarnados” fans are planning a big presence in Charlotte, with chants and flags to rally the team. Bayern supporters promise to bring their trademark energy. Social media is abuzz with debates over lineups and predictions, with many highlighting the historic rivalry and squad quality.
The match has also caught the eye of neutral fans, who see it as a chance to watch top-tier football. The presence of stars like Kane, Di María, and Kimmich elevates the game’s appeal, potentially making it one of the most-watched in the group stage.
