Explained: Why There Isn’t a Third-Place Playoff Game at the 2025 Club World Cup…
In a surprising break from tradition, the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup will conclude without a third-place playoff match. Fans expecting a final face-off between Spanish giants Real Madrid and Brazilian side Fluminense FC were left puzzled as FIFA quietly confirmed that no bronze-medal match would be held following both clubs’ semifinal exits.
What Happened?
After Chelsea defeated Fluminense 2–0 and Manchester City edged past Real Madrid 3–2, many assumed the two losing semifinalists would meet in a customary third-place decider. However, FIFA’s official match schedule confirmed no such game was planned for this expanded edition of the tournament, which featured 32 teams for the first time.
Instead, both Fluminense and Real Madrid were jointly classified as semi-finalists, with no additional fixture scheduled before the July 14 final between Chelsea and Manchester City.
Why Did FIFA Scrap the Third-Place Match?
There are three key reasons behind the decision:
1. Player Welfare in Extreme Heat
The tournament is being held in the United States during the peak of summer, with temperatures surpassing 35°C (95°F) and high humidity levels. Several players, including Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández, publicly criticized the intense conditions, calling them “dangerous” and “borderline unplayable.” With physical fatigue already setting in, FIFA decided not to further burden eliminated teams with a low-stakes game.
2. Lack of Competitive Interest
Historically, third-place matches—while often entertaining—tend to lack the intensity or viewership of other games. For clubs that narrowly miss the final, motivation to play for bronze can be minimal. This is especially true for elite clubs like Real Madrid, who view the Club World Cup as a prestigious title opportunity, not just a podium finish.
3. Logistical & Scheduling Constraints
With the 32-team format, this year’s Club World Cup featured a more congested fixture list, spread across multiple U.S. cities. Hosting an additional match would have required stadium availability, security, and fan coordination in what is already a tightly packed schedule. Prioritizing rest and recovery over a ceremonial third-place game was seen as the more pragmatic approach.
What Do the Clubs Think?
Neither Real Madrid nor Fluminense have issued strong objections. Fluminense, coming off a physically taxing semifinal against Chelsea, have already begun preparations to return to Brazil for their domestic Série A clash with Cruzeiro on July 18. Real Madrid, meanwhile, are shifting focus to preseason planning and transfer activities.
A source close to the Fluminense delegation told Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte:
“We’re proud of reaching the semifinal in a historic tournament. A third-place match wouldn’t change much for us. Our focus now returns to Brazil.”
Looking Ahead
FIFA’s decision to eliminate the third-place game may set a precedent for future expanded editions of the Club World Cup. As the format continues to evolve—with 32 teams, group stages, and more commercial partnerships—expect further changes to streamline logistics and ensure player safety.
For now, the footballing world awaits an all-English final between Chelsea and Manchester City in New York, while Fluminense and Real Madrid head home—without the chance to fight for third, but with the pride of reaching the final four in a grueling global tournament.
