With the conclusion of Group E fixtures at the Club World Cup, two fresh matchups for the Round of 16 have been confirmed, adding to the growing list of knockout-stage clashes. While 14 of the 16 qualifying spots for the next round are now set, the final two berths will be decided tomorrow following Group H matches, where heavyweights Real Madrid, Red Bull Salzburg, and Al Hilal will vie for advancement.
The confirmed Round of 16 pairings so far include:
Palmeiras vs Botafogo (an all-Brazilian showdown)
Benfica vs Chelsea (a rematch of European rivals)
Paris Saint-Germain vs Inter Miami (featuring Lionel Messi's side)
Flamengo vs Bayern Munich (South American vs German giants)
Inter Milan vs Fluminense (Italian champions take on Brazilian league winners)
Borussia Dortmund vs Monterrey (German outfit faces CONCACAF representatives)
Notably, Defending champions Real Madrid must navigate a tricky Group H alongside Austrian titleholders Salzburg and Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal to secure their knockout-stage place.
