Bayern Munich vs Auckland City: Club World Cup preview, team news & predicted lineups | OneFootball

After being crowned 2024/25 Bundesliga champions, Bayern Munich are looking to add another trophy to their collection at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

The German giants begin their campaign on June 15, facing New Zealand club Auckland City at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati (kick-off: 18:00 CET).

Bayern are overwhelming favorites heading into this first-round match. While Auckland City are the most successful team in Oceania, having won 11 of the last 13 OFC Champions League titles, the gulf in quality is undeniable.

The New Zealanders are an amateur club, with players receiving only a modest weekly allowance of around $90 for basic expenses.

With that in mind, the excitement within the Auckland City squad is understandable as they prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“It’s probably our dream group,” said Auckland City striker Angus Kilkolly in an interview with AFP, referring to their group-stage opponents Bayern Munich, Benfica, and Boca Juniors.

“To experience playing against those teams is a dream for us. To be on the same pitch is a little bit crazy.”

Heading into the tournament, Bayern have been boosted by the return of Dayot Upamecano and Jamal Musiala to training after long-term injuries. Both players are expected to be gradually eased back into competitive action during the Club World Cup.

The Bavarians have also strengthened their squad with two early summer signings: Jonathan Tah from Bayer Leverkusen and Tom Bischof from Hoffenheim. Both newcomers are eligible and included in Bayern’s Club World Cup squad.

FC Bayern Munich vs. Auckland City: Predicted Lineups

FC Bayern Munich: Neuer – Laimer, Tah, Stanisic, Guerreiro – Pavlovic, Kimmich – Olise, Müller, Gnabry – Kane.

Auckland City: Tracey – Legos, Mitchell, Boxal, Lobo – Garriga, Ilic, Yoo – Manickum, Bevan, Zeb.