LAFC’s Thrilling Rise to the Club World Cup

Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) pulled off an exhilarating 2-1 comeback win over Mexican powerhouse Club América on Saturday night at BMO Stadium. This victory, marked by stunning goals from Igor Jesus and Denis Bouanga, secured LAFC’s place in the upcoming Club World Cup, further establishing their reputation within the footballing elite.

Path to the Club World Cup

LAFC’s qualification came after a dramatic playoff match. Initially, they were set to face fellow Liga MX side Club León, but the latter was disqualified due to FIFA’s multi-club ownership regulations. The victory against Club América not only allowed LAFC to advance but also symbolized the club’s resilience and competitive spirit.

Significance of the Club World Cup

By winning the playoff match, LAFC joined Inter Miami CF and Seattle Sounders FC in the summer’s marquee tournament, which boasts a prize pool of $9.55 million for each participating team. The Club World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 14 to July 13, with matches held across the United States. Teams can also earn additional prize money based on their performance in the tournament.

Group Stage Format

In this prestigious tournament, the top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout phase, promising thrilling football for fans and players alike. All matches will be streamed live on DAZN, ensuring that supporters around the world can follow the action as it unfolds.

LAFC’s Group D Schedule

LAFC has a challenging schedule ahead, as they will compete in Group D against formidable opponents across the southeastern United States. Here’s how their schedule looks:

• June 16: vs. Chelsea – 3 PM ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
• June 20: vs. ES Tunis – 6 PM ET at GEODIS Park, Nashville, Tennessee
• June 24: vs. Flamengo – 9 PM ET at Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida

The first match pits LAFC against English Premier League side Chelsea, who recently celebrated victory in the 2025 UEFA Conference League. Following that, LAFC will face ES Tunis from Tunisia and Flamengo from Brazil, both of whom are known for their passionate followings and competitive play.

Inter Miami’s Tournament Journey

Meanwhile, Inter Miami CF earned a coveted spot in the Club World Cup as the host nation’s representatives, attributed to their stellar performance in the 2024 MLS season. They finished with an impressive 74 points, setting a new league record.

Inter Miami’s Group A Schedule

Inter Miami’s schedule features a mix of challenging encounters, starting with a standalone match:

• June 14: vs. Al Ahly – 8 PM ET at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida
• June 19: vs. FC Porto – 3 PM ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
• June 23: vs. Palmeiras – 9 PM ET at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, Florida

The Herons will first take on Egyptian giants Al Ahly before clashing with Portuguese powerhouses FC Porto and Brazilian leaders Palmeiras.

Seattle Sounders FC’s Standout Qualifying

Seattle Sounders FC secured their spot through their historic 2022 Concacaf Champions Cup triumph, defeating Pumas UNAM with a comfortable 5-2 aggregate score in the final. This accomplishment solidified Seattle’s position as a top team in North America.

Seattle’s Group B Schedule

The Sounders will have the advantage of playing all their group matches at home, creating an electrifying atmosphere for fans:

• June 15: vs. Botafogo – 10 PM ET at Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
• June 19: vs. Atlético Madrid – 6 PM ET at Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington
• June 23: vs. Paris Saint-Germain – 3 PM ET at Lumen Field, Seattle, Washington

Seattle will kick off their campaign against Brazilian side Botafogo, followed by encounters with European heavyweights Atlético Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, who recently clinched the 2025 UEFA Champions League title.

As these North American teams prepare to showcase their talents on the global stage, football enthusiasts can look forward to thrilling matchups and memorable moments at the Club World Cup this summer.