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| Bayern Munich vs Auckland City: Club World Cup 2025 Preview, Kickoff Time, Lineups & Score Prediction. |
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is officially underway, and European powerhouse Bayern Munich is set to begin their campaign with what should be a straightforward matchup against New Zealand’s Auckland City. The game kicks off this Sunday at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio.
While the two teams come from completely different footballing worlds, the match still holds excitement—especially for the underdogs, who get a once-in-a-lifetime chance to face one of Europe’s most legendary clubs.
Bayern Munich: Bundesliga Champs Eyeing Another Trophy
Bayern Munich, six-time UEFA Champions League winners, enter the tournament as one of the top contenders. Even though they were knocked out in the quarterfinals of last season’s UCL, Vincent Kompany’s squad cruised to yet another Bundesliga title.
Drawn into Group C alongside Benfica and Boca Juniors, Bayern’s toughest matches are still ahead. That’s why this opening match against Auckland City will likely serve as a warm-up and a chance to rotate the squad.
Despite resting some of their regulars, Bayern’s second team still packs more than enough talent to dominate this fixture.
Auckland City: Oceania’s Best Taking On a Giant
Auckland City has been a dominant force in New Zealand football and is no stranger to the Club World Cup. However, they remain the only non-professional team in the entire tournament, with many players taking time off their day jobs to participate.
Striker Angus Kilkolly called the draw against Bayern “a dream come true.” For many of the players, this will be their first time playing in a stadium of this scale and intensity.
Their key player is 28-year-old forward Myer Bevan, who has scored 8 goals this season. He previously played in MLS with Vancouver Whitecaps and brings valuable experience to the squad.
Match Info: Kickoff Time and How to Watch
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Date: Sunday, June 15, 2025
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Venue: TQL Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Kickoff Time: 12:00 PM ET / 9:00 AM PT / 5:00 PM BST
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Referee: Issa Sy (Senegal)
How to Watch:
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United States: DAZN
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UK: Channel 5, DAZN
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Canada & Mexico: DAZN
Streaming may also be available through FIFA’s official platforms.
Recent Form (Last 5 Matches)
Bayern Munich:
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Won 4-0 vs Hoffenheim
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Won 2-0 vs Borussia Mönchengladbach
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Drew 3-3 vs RB Leipzig
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Won 3-0 vs Mainz
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Won 4-0 vs Heidenheim
Auckland City:
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Won 4-0 vs Onehunga Mangere United
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Won 5-2 vs West Coast Rangers
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Won 1-0 vs Auckland United
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Won 5-2 vs Manurewa
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Drew 2-2 vs East Coast Bays
Predicted Lineups
Bayern Munich (4-2-3-1):
Urbig; Laimer, Dier, Tah, Stanišić; Palhinha, Bischof; Olisé, Müller, Guerreiro; Kusi-Asare
Squad Notes:
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Jamal Musiala and Dayot Upamecano are back from injury.
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Leroy Sané has agreed to a move to Galatasaray but will finish the tournament with Bayern.
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Club legend Thomas Müller is playing in what could be his final games for the team.
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Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito are sidelined with injuries.
Auckland City (4-3-3):
Tracey; Legos, Mitchell, Boxal, Lobo; Garriga, Ilic, Yoo; Manickum, Bevan, Zeb
Squad Notes:
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Mostly local players from New Zealand with a few international players from Ireland, England, Spain, and Colombia.
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Players had to take unpaid leave from their regular jobs to travel for the tournament.
Score Prediction
Let’s be honest—this match is a classic David vs Goliath situation. Auckland City may have more Club World Cup appearances than many teams, but the skill gap here is massive.
While the Kiwis will no doubt fight with heart, Bayern’s firepower should see them cruise to victory.
Final Score Prediction: Bayern Munich 5–0 Auckland City
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