What needs to happen for Real Madrid to meet Atletico in the Club World Cup | OneFootball

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup promises to be a landmark event in football history.

With 32 clubs from around the world and a format that mirrors the international World Cup, fans are looking forward to high-stakes drama, and there is one possible showdown that already has people buzzing: a potential Madrid derby on the biggest club stage of them all.

It is to be noted that Real Madrid have been placed in Group H, where they will face Al Hilal, Pachuca, and Red Bull Salzburg. With their rich history and world-class squad, Los Blancos are clear favourites to finish top.

Atletico Madrid, however, find themselves in a much tougher Group B alongside PSG, Botafogo, and the Seattle Sounders. Diego Simeone’s side will have to bring their A-game to get through, especially if they aim to finish above PSG.

Can there be a Madrid Derby?

The route to a Madrid derby depends entirely on how both sides perform in the group stage. If both clubs finish first or both finish second, they will land on the same side of the knockout bracket, making a semi-final clash possible.

Real Madrid can face Atletico Madrid in Club World Cup if certain conditions are met. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

But if one finishes first and the other second, they will be split into opposite halves, setting up a potential final on 13 July in New Jersey.

While a semi-final clash would be exciting, a Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid final would be unforgettable. It would be the first time the two city rivals would meet in a Club World Cup final.

For Real Madrid, it would be a chance to assert their global dominance, while for Atletico, it is a shot at revenge and history.

All eyes now turn to the group stage. One thing is clear that the football world could witness a Madrid derby like never before.