🌎 Club World Cup Group C: The 'haves' and the 'have nots' face-off | OneFootball

In the latest look at the groups competing at this summer’s Club World Cup in the USA, it is now time to cast our eyes over Group C.

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Who is in Group C?

The favourites

Bayern Munich will likely lead the way here in Group C with the German champions boasting the likes of Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala and the departing Thomas Müller amongst their squad. With Boca Juniors and Benfica looking strong though, this could be one of the more competitive groups at the Club World Cup.

What’s the key game?

📸 Alexander Hassenstein - Bongarts

June 20th is the date for a fixture that's exactly what this tournament is all about. Bayern Munich - six-time European champions - play the six-time South American champions, Boca Juniors, in Miami. These two behemoths have only ever played each other once in their respective histories, with Bayern beating Boca 1-0 in the Intercontinental Cup final back in 2001.

Can you give me a player to watch for each team?

Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)

At 22, Jamal Musiala continues to be a pivotal figure in Bayern Munich's formidable attack. Known for his exceptional dribbling, vision and composure, Musiala has been instrumental in Bayern's domestic and European campaigns. Despite facing some injury setbacks, his performances have earned the Germany international a place in the Bundesliga Team of the Season and a contract extension until 2030.

Vangelis Pavlidis (Benfica)

Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis has been a standout performer for Benfica since his arrival in 2024 from AZ Alkmaar. The burly forward netted 19 goals domestically, making him the league's second-highest scorer. His notable performances include a hat-trick against Barcelona in the Champions League and another against Porto in April 2025. Pavlidis's ability to link play and his selfless approach have made him an integral part of Benfica's attack.

Exequiel Zeballos (Boca Juniors)

📸 Marcelo Endelli - 2025 Getty Images

Exequiel Zeballos, affectionately known as 'El Changuito' is a 22-year-old winger who has become a key figure for Boca this term. Having progressed through their youth system, Zeballos made his senior debut in 2020 and has since accumulated over 100 appearances for the club.

Haris Zeb (Auckland City)

Haris Zeb, a promising talent in Auckland's ranks, has been making waves with his performances in the New Zealand National League. Known for his resilience and attacking flair, Zeb's journey from local clubs to the big time has proved his dedication to the cause.

And the big storyline?

It's the 'haves' and the 'have nots' in Group C with three of the biggest clubs in the world going up against the only amateur side in the competition. How Auckland City fare against the European and South American giants will be fascinating but don't be surprised if elsewhere there are a few shocks along the way.

Prediction

📸 ALEXANDRA BEIER - AFP or licensors