Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : The knockout stage of the FIFA Club World Cup is beginning to take shape, with European giants Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund, alongside Mexican powerhouse Monterrey, all securing their spots in the Last 16 with convincing victories.
Inter Milan showcased their Serie A class with a dominant 2-0 win over Egyptian champions Al Ahly. The Italian side controlled the match from the start, with talismanic striker Lautaro Martínez breaking the deadlock before halftime. Hakan Çalhanoğlu sealed the victory with a well-placed strike in the second half, ensuring Inter's smooth passage to the next round.
The #FIFACWC Round of 16 bracket is nearly complete... pic.twitter.com/XopT6ldY0K
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 26, 2025
Borussia Dortmund also booked their place in the knockouts, overcoming a spirited challenge from South Korean side Ulsan Hyundai in a 3-1 win. The German club's fluid attack proved too much to handle, with goals from Donyell Malen and Julian Brandt securing a comfortable lead before Ulsan pulled one back. However, a late goal from a substitute sealed Dortmund's progression.
Saturday: Game-winning assist.
— FIFA Club World Cup (@FIFACWC) June 26, 2025
Wednesday: Game-winning goal.
A dream week for 19-year-old Francesco Pio Esposito at the #FIFACWC. ???????? pic.twitter.com/n5vdVerjG5
Representing the CONCACAF region, Monterrey demonstrated their quality with a professional 2-0 victory against South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns. After a cagey first half, Monterrey's quality shone through, with two second-half goals ensuring they would join the other big names in the next phase of the tournament.
There were no major upsets on a day where the tournament's heavyweights asserted their dominance. With these three teams now confirmed for the knockout rounds, the path to the final is becoming clearer in the expanded global competition.
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