Where to watch Bayern vs Benfica live now with the lineup confirmed by the FIFA Club World Cup Por Luís Henrique Costa
9 min de leitura
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EIn a thrilling clash in the third round of Group C of the FIFA Club World Cup, Bayern Munich and Benfica face off this Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM (Brasília time) at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, United States. The match, set to be a highlight of the group stage, pits the unbeaten group leader Bayern, already qualified for the round of 16, against Benfica, fighting for a spot in the next phase. Broadcast live on SporTV, CazéTV (YouTube), Globoplay, and DAZN, the game captivates Brazilian fans and global football enthusiasts. Charlotte’s intense heat, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, and refereeing by Frenchman François Letexier add layers of challenge to this tactical duel. The historic rivalry, marked by German dominance, heightens anticipation for a spectacle on American soil.
Bayern, led by Vincent Kompany, boasts a 100% record in the tournament, with commanding wins over Auckland City (10-0) and Boca Juniors (2-1). Meanwhile, Benfica, under Bruno Lage, has four points from a thrashing of Auckland City (6-0) and a draw with Boca Juniors (2-2). The match is crucial for the Portuguese side, needing at least a draw to secure qualification without relying on other results. A record of 13 prior encounters, with 10 Bayern wins and three draws, weighs heavily on Benfica, who seek their first victory against the Germans.
- Points at stake: A draw ensures Bayern’s group leadership and keeps Benfica in contention.
- Confirmed absences: Benfica misses Belotti and Florentino, while Bayern monitors Musiala and Stanisic.
- Stars in focus: Harry Kane for Bayern and Ángel Di María for Benfica are names to watch.
Charlotte’s atmosphere is electric, with fans of both clubs flooding the streets near the stadium. The local Portuguese community promises fervent support for Benfica, while Bayern’s passionate fans ensure a strong presence.
Bayern’s historical dominance
Bayern Munich enters the match with an overwhelming edge in their head-to-head record against Benfica. Across 13 official games, all in European competitions, the Germans have won 10 times, drawn three, and scored 36 goals to Benfica’s seven. Their latest meeting, in the 2024/25 Champions League group stage, ended in a 1-0 Bayern victory, courtesy of a Jamal Musiala goal. This historical dominance puts pressure on Benfica, who have never beaten their opponent in official competitions.
Despite the weight of history, Benfica has reasons for optimism. The Portuguese side showed resilience in the tournament, particularly in their draw against Boca Juniors, sealed by a late Nicolás Otamendi header. Their 6-0 rout of Auckland City further boosted confidence, with Ángel Di María delivering a standout performance. However, the absence of Florentino Luís, a key midfielder, may limit Bruno Lage’s tactical options, forcing a more cautious approach against Bayern’s relentless attack.
Bayern’s superiority extends beyond history. With 12 goals scored and just one conceded in two Club World Cup matches, the Germans showcase balance between attack and defense. Harry Kane, with three goals in the tournament, and Michael Olise, with five goal involvements, form a lethal attacking duo, while Joshua Kimmich and Dayot Upamecano provide solidity in midfield and defense.
Tactics and strategies on the pitch
Vincent Kompany, Bayern’s coach, is likely to stick with his 4-2-3-1 formation, blending possession with high pressing. Uncertainty over Jamal Musiala’s fitness, recovering from injury, may see Thomas Müller step in, bringing experience and tactical intelligence. Manuel Neuer in goal is a key asset, with his ability to make crucial saves and organize the backline. Bayern will rely on Kane and Olise’s movement to exploit Benfica’s flanks, which showed vulnerabilities against Boca Juniors.
Bruno Lage, meanwhile, plans a compact Benfica in a 4-2-3-1, emphasizing quick transitions. Ángel Di María and Kerem Aktürköglu will create chances from the wings, while Vangelis Pavlidis, with 29 goals this season, is the main attacking threat. In midfield, Renato Sanches, a former Bayern player, faces the tough task of containing Kimmich and Leon Goretzka in a high-intensity battle. The defense, led by Otamendi, must stay sharp to counter Bayern’s attacking moves.
Refereeing: François Letexier, known for strictness, may influence the game’s tempo with cards.
Bayern’s tactical key: High pressing to recover possession quickly and capitalize on counterattacks.
Benfica’s strategy: Defensive compactness and rapid breaks led by Di María and Pavlidis.
Heat factor: High temperatures will demand player rotation and constant hydration.
Charlotte as a global stage
Bank of America Stadium, with a 74,000-seat capacity, is a standout venue for the 2025 Club World Cup. Known for hosting NFL games, the stadium has been adapted for top-tier football, featuring a pristine pitch and modern facilities. Charlotte’s selection as a host city reflects FIFA’s strategy to grow football in the U.S., a rising market ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The city is buzzing with excitement as fans from around the world arrive. Bars and restaurants near the stadium display Benfica and Bayern flags, while the local Portuguese community organizes events to rally behind the “Eagles.” Tickets, available via Ticketmaster, vary in price by seating area, but a full house is expected despite the scorching heat forecast for 4:00 PM.
FIFA has enforced strict security measures, including digital tickets and thorough entry checks. Team logistics were meticulously planned, with both sides arriving early to adapt to the hot climate and time zone. Bayern, accustomed to tournament travel, seems settled, while Benfica, playing in their third U.S. city, prioritized player recovery.
Stars who can decide the game
The matchup features world-class talent capable of turning the tide. For Bayern, Harry Kane is the focal point, with his finishing and playmaking ability. Michael Olise, 23, has shone with goals and assists, while Joshua Kimmich dictates play with precise passing. The defense, anchored by Upamecano and Neuer, is nearly impenetrable, conceding just one goal in the tournament.
For Benfica, Ángel Di María, in his final games for the club, remains a linchpin. The Argentine, set to depart after the Club World Cup, aims to leave a lasting mark. Vangelis Pavlidis, the team’s top scorer this season, is the go-to striker, while Nicolás Otamendi brings experience and leadership in defense. Renato Sanches, facing his former club, could be a game-changer in midfield, especially in a high-stakes encounter.
Nicolás Otamendi: Two headed goals in the tournament, excelling in set pieces.
Harry Kane: Three goals in the Club World Cup, averaging five shots per game.
Ángel Di María: Three goals and two assists, leading Benfica’s attack.
Joshua Kimmich: 92% pass accuracy, controlling Bayern’s tempo.
Accessibility for fans
Brazilian viewers have multiple ways to watch the clash. SporTV airs the game on cable TV, with narration emphasizing the historic rivalry. CazéTV, via YouTube, offers free access, while Globoplay and DAZN provide high-quality streaming. Platforms like SofaScore and FIFA’s official app deliver real-time stats, such as possession and player performance, enhancing the fan experience.
Social media is abuzz with analysis and predictions, with hashtags like #ClubWorldCup and #BenficaBayern trending. Clubs share exclusive content, including training behind-the-scenes and player messages. For those in Charlotte, FIFA set up public viewing screens, allowing ticketless fans to enjoy the match in a festive atmosphere.
Moments that could define the match
The game has all the makings of a Club World Cup classic. Bayern, with their tactical consistency and attacking prowess, are favorites, but Benfica have shown they can upset expectations, especially with Di María’s flair. Charlotte’s heat will test both teams’ endurance, requiring strategic substitutions.
Referee François Letexier’s strict approach could shape the game, with potential cards for rough challenges. The VAR, operated by a European crew, will scrutinize contentious calls, like penalties or offside goals. The historic rivalry and technical quality promise a spectacle that could define the tournament.
Curiosities stirring the matchup
The Bayern-Benfica clash is rich with subplots. Bayern’s João Palhinha faces the club his family supports, adding an emotional layer. Vincent Kompany, in his first Club World Cup as coach, aims to cement his reputation, while Bruno Lage seeks to replicate his earlier success with Benfica.
- Di María’s farewell: The Argentine plays his final matches for Benfica before returning to Rosario Central.
- Bayern’s defense: Just one goal conceded in two games, a group-stage record.
- American debut: Charlotte hosts its first Club World Cup match, expecting a record crowd.
- Renato Sanches: The Portuguese midfielder faces Bayern, where he played from 2016 to 2019, in a special reunion.
The Bayern-Benfica showdown is more than a group-stage match. It’s a new chapter in a storied rivalry, played on a global stage that underscores FIFA’s ambition to elevate the Club World Cup. With star players, passionate fans, and an intriguing tactical battle, the game is poised to leave a lasting mark.es épicas. Com estrelas em campo, torcidas apaixonadas e um cenário tático intrigante, o confronto tem tudo para ficar na memória dos fãs.
