Four-time continental champions face off in a searing Group B set for the revamped 32‑team FIFA Club World Cup in the U.S., immediately earning the nickname "group of death". Matches will be played across prominent West Coast venues—including Lumen Field in Seattle and the iconic Rose Bowl. Only two teams advance past the group stage, making every match a high-stakes showdown.
Paris Saint‑Germain enter as clear favorites, fresh from a historic treble under Luis Enrique, capped by a Champions League win and dominant performances in Ligue 1. PSG’s roster depth, including Dembélé and Donnarumma, ensures elite quality, although the team has displayed occasional cracks on the European stage—their loss to Atlético in the Champions League being the prime example .
Atlético Madrid bring Spanish grit and tactical discipline under Diego Simeone. Ever-present in La Liga’s top three and boasting reliable performers like Jan Oblak and Griezmann, they offer a consistent challenge. Botafogo, riding high from their first Copa Libertadores victory, have added experienced Internacional striker Joaquín Correa and carry Brazilian momentum—though their mid-year form remains somewhat uncertain.
Seattle Sounders FC round out the group as the MLS representative and the host nation’s sole team in Group B. Despite being underdogs, they enjoy home-field advantage, crowd support, and recent continental success, including a Concacaf Champions League title . Analysts give them about a 19% chance to progress, underscoring the challenge against world-class opponents .
Bottom Line:
Group B features star-studded giants PSG and Atlético expected to lead proceedings, while Botafogo’s rising form and Seattle’s host edge add unpredictability. With only two slots available, every fixture is set to deliver drama and high-stakes clashes.
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