Latest news with #LeagueSoccer
The Advertiser
10 hours ago
- Sport
- The Advertiser
A million empty seats for Club World Cup group stage
After a group stage played in front of more than one million empty seats, the Club World Cup moves on to the knockout rounds that could soon resemble a Champions League clone. Nine teams that advanced to the round of 16 are from Europe along with four from Brazil and one each from Major League Soccer, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. About 56.7 per cent of publicly listed capacity was filled for the 48 group stage matches, which included crowds of 3,412 and 6,730 in Orlando, Florida; 5,282 and 8,239 in Cincinnati. Total announced attendance was 1.67 million from 2.95 million capacity, an average of 34,746. Just 44.9 per cent was filled for five matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the site of next year's World Cup final, and 50 per cent at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, where the 1994 championship game was played. Among other 2026 sites, 81.8 per cent of capacity was filled in Miami Gardens, Florida, 61.6 per cent in Philadelphia, 52 per cent in Seattle and 44.3 per cent in Atlanta. FIFA spokesman Bryan Swanson did not respond to a request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the tournament and attendance. FIFA issued a statement that said: "The appetite of the tournament speaks for itself: fans from 168 countries have already purchased tickets ... a clear sign of global anticipation and reach." The 12 games televised with English commentary on TNT, TBS and truTV averaged 360,000 viewers through Monday, including 409,000 for seven matches on nights and weekends. The second round opens Saturday with an all-Brazilian matchup of Palmeiras and Botafogo, followed by Chelsea-Benfica later in the day. Sunday starts with the high-profile meeting of Inter Miami and Lionel Messi against European champions Paris Saint-Germain and is followed by Bayern Munich-Flamengo. Inter Milan-Fluminese and Manchester City-Al Hilal are on Monday, and Real Madrid-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund-Monterrey on Tuesday. European teams won 16 of the 17 previous editions of an eight-team Club World Cup, the lone exception a 2012 victory by Brazil's Corinthians over Chelsea. Five of the 12 stadiums being used are sites for next year's World Cup, which will have 104 matches instead of 64 and many more games lacking prestigious teams and players. There were five weather delays in the Club World Cup group stage and temperatures at times rose well over 90 degrees (32 Celsius), a sign that climate change could impact next year's World Cup. However, four of the stadiums for next year's tournament have roofs and climate control. After a group stage played in front of more than one million empty seats, the Club World Cup moves on to the knockout rounds that could soon resemble a Champions League clone. Nine teams that advanced to the round of 16 are from Europe along with four from Brazil and one each from Major League Soccer, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. About 56.7 per cent of publicly listed capacity was filled for the 48 group stage matches, which included crowds of 3,412 and 6,730 in Orlando, Florida; 5,282 and 8,239 in Cincinnati. Total announced attendance was 1.67 million from 2.95 million capacity, an average of 34,746. Just 44.9 per cent was filled for five matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the site of next year's World Cup final, and 50 per cent at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, where the 1994 championship game was played. Among other 2026 sites, 81.8 per cent of capacity was filled in Miami Gardens, Florida, 61.6 per cent in Philadelphia, 52 per cent in Seattle and 44.3 per cent in Atlanta. FIFA spokesman Bryan Swanson did not respond to a request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the tournament and attendance. FIFA issued a statement that said: "The appetite of the tournament speaks for itself: fans from 168 countries have already purchased tickets ... a clear sign of global anticipation and reach." The 12 games televised with English commentary on TNT, TBS and truTV averaged 360,000 viewers through Monday, including 409,000 for seven matches on nights and weekends. The second round opens Saturday with an all-Brazilian matchup of Palmeiras and Botafogo, followed by Chelsea-Benfica later in the day. Sunday starts with the high-profile meeting of Inter Miami and Lionel Messi against European champions Paris Saint-Germain and is followed by Bayern Munich-Flamengo. Inter Milan-Fluminese and Manchester City-Al Hilal are on Monday, and Real Madrid-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund-Monterrey on Tuesday. European teams won 16 of the 17 previous editions of an eight-team Club World Cup, the lone exception a 2012 victory by Brazil's Corinthians over Chelsea. Five of the 12 stadiums being used are sites for next year's World Cup, which will have 104 matches instead of 64 and many more games lacking prestigious teams and players. There were five weather delays in the Club World Cup group stage and temperatures at times rose well over 90 degrees (32 Celsius), a sign that climate change could impact next year's World Cup. However, four of the stadiums for next year's tournament have roofs and climate control. After a group stage played in front of more than one million empty seats, the Club World Cup moves on to the knockout rounds that could soon resemble a Champions League clone. Nine teams that advanced to the round of 16 are from Europe along with four from Brazil and one each from Major League Soccer, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. About 56.7 per cent of publicly listed capacity was filled for the 48 group stage matches, which included crowds of 3,412 and 6,730 in Orlando, Florida; 5,282 and 8,239 in Cincinnati. Total announced attendance was 1.67 million from 2.95 million capacity, an average of 34,746. Just 44.9 per cent was filled for five matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the site of next year's World Cup final, and 50 per cent at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, where the 1994 championship game was played. Among other 2026 sites, 81.8 per cent of capacity was filled in Miami Gardens, Florida, 61.6 per cent in Philadelphia, 52 per cent in Seattle and 44.3 per cent in Atlanta. FIFA spokesman Bryan Swanson did not respond to a request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the tournament and attendance. FIFA issued a statement that said: "The appetite of the tournament speaks for itself: fans from 168 countries have already purchased tickets ... a clear sign of global anticipation and reach." The 12 games televised with English commentary on TNT, TBS and truTV averaged 360,000 viewers through Monday, including 409,000 for seven matches on nights and weekends. The second round opens Saturday with an all-Brazilian matchup of Palmeiras and Botafogo, followed by Chelsea-Benfica later in the day. Sunday starts with the high-profile meeting of Inter Miami and Lionel Messi against European champions Paris Saint-Germain and is followed by Bayern Munich-Flamengo. Inter Milan-Fluminese and Manchester City-Al Hilal are on Monday, and Real Madrid-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund-Monterrey on Tuesday. European teams won 16 of the 17 previous editions of an eight-team Club World Cup, the lone exception a 2012 victory by Brazil's Corinthians over Chelsea. Five of the 12 stadiums being used are sites for next year's World Cup, which will have 104 matches instead of 64 and many more games lacking prestigious teams and players. There were five weather delays in the Club World Cup group stage and temperatures at times rose well over 90 degrees (32 Celsius), a sign that climate change could impact next year's World Cup. However, four of the stadiums for next year's tournament have roofs and climate control.
San Francisco Chronicle
17 hours ago
- Sport
- San Francisco Chronicle
More than 1 million empty seats for Club World Cup group stage. Knockout rounds up next
After a group stage played in front of more than 1 million empty seats, the Club World Cup moves on to knockout rounds that could soon resemble a Champions League clone. Nine teams that advanced to the round of 16 are from Europe along with four from Brazil and one each from Major League Soccer, Mexico and Saudi Arabia. About 56.7% of publicly listed capacity was filled for the 48 group stage matches, which included crowds of 3,412 and 6,730 in Orlando, Florida; 5,282 and 8,239 in Cincinnati. FIFA did not provide specific capacities for the tournament despite repeated requests from The Associated Press. Total announced attendance was 1.67 million from 2.95 million capacity, an average of 34,759. Just 44.9% was filled for five matches at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, the site of next year's World Cup final, and 50% at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, where the 1994 championship game was played. Among other 2026 sites, 81.8% of capacity was filled in Miami Gardens, Florida, 61.6% in Philadelphia, 52% in Seattle and 44.3% in Atlanta. FIFA spokesman Bryan Swanson did not respond to a request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to discuss the tournament and attendance. FIFA issued a statement that said: 'The appetite of the tournament speaks for itself: fans from 168 countries have already purchased tickets ... a clear sign of global anticipation and reach.' Seven of eight quarterfinal spots could be European clubs The second round opens Saturday with an all-Brazilian matchup of Palmeiras and Botafogo, followed by Chelsea-Benfica later in the day. Sunday starts with the high-profile meeting of Inter Miami and Lionel Messi against European champion Paris Saint-Germain and is followed by Bayern Munich-Flamengo. Inter Milan-Fluminese and Manchester City-Al Hilal are on Monday, and Real Madrid-Juventus and Borussia Dortmund-Monterrey on Tuesday. European teams won 16 of the 17 previous editions of an eight-team Club World Cup, the lone exception a 2012 victory by Brazil's Corinthians over Chelsea. Manchester City is the only team that went 3-0 in the group stage. Watching the weather Five of the 12 stadiums being used are sites for next year's World Cup, which will have 104 matches instead of 64 and many more games lacking prestigious teams and players. There were five weather delays in the Club World Cup group stage and temperatures at times rose well over 90 degrees (32 Celsius), a sign that climate change could impact next year's World Cup. However, four of the stadiums for next year's tournament have roofs and climate control. Mbappe's been a no show Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe, among soccer's top stars, didn't play a minute of the group stage, having been hospitalized and treated for acute gastroenteritis. He drew attention this week when the Paris prosecutor's office said he filed a moral harassment case against PSG, his former club. 'I don't want to be optimistic and get ahead of myself, but we need him because he's a top player, one of the best in the world. We hope he's back soon,' Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso said Thursday. Messi back on the world stage Messi, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner who turned 38 on Tuesday, has helped Miami reach the knockout phase with moments of brilliance. He hit the goal frame twice in the opening draw against Al Ahly, then scored his 68th free kick goal for club and country in the 2-1 win over Porto. Next up is the game against PSG, Messi's team from 2021-23. Brilliant Brazil All four entrants from Brazil have advanced to the round of 16, with Botafogo beating PSG 1-0 in a matchup of current European and South American champions. Flamengo, Palmeiras and Fluminense are also through to the next stage. ___
Winnipeg Free Press
2 days ago
- Sport
- Winnipeg Free Press
Vancouver Whitecaps lead all clubs with four players on MLS all-star roster
As befitting their breakout season, the Vancouver Whitecaps lead Major League Soccer with four players on this year's all-star squad. Whitecaps goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka, defender Tristan Blackmon, midfielder Sebastian Berhalter and forward Brian White will make their MLS all-star game debut July 31 against the Liga MX all-stars in Austin, Texas. The Whitecaps have never had more than one player selected to an all-star team and have only had six all-stars in club history — Jay DeMerit (2012), Camilo (2013), David Ousted (2015), Kendall Waston (2016), Alphonso Davies (2018) and Ryan Gauld (2024). 'This is a great testament to what we have done together as a group and the recognition is a reflection of the team's overall performance,' Whitecaps head coach Jesper Sorensen said in a statement. 'It's a proud moment for the individuals selected, exciting time for the club, and we are focused on building on this success.' Vancouver topped the Western Conference at 10-2-5 and stood second in the Supporters' Shield standings, two points behind Philadelphia before play Wednesday. The Whitecaps, who made it to the final of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, had conceded a league-low 14 goals and scored 31 goals. Vancouver is the only Canadian club among the 15 represented on the all-star roster. Minnesota United goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair is the only Canadian in the all-star squad. The 26-man squad includes 12 players chosen in a vote of MLS fans, players and media, plus 12 selected by all-star coach Nico Estévez from host Austin FC and two by MLS commissioner Don Garber. Berhalter, Blackmon and White were voted in while Takaoka, who is tied for the league lead with eight clean sheets, was a coach's pick. St. Clair was also voted in. 'My goal this year was to be an all-star … something I've been working towards,' the 24-year-old Berhalter said in an interview. 'Jesper came in and has given me a lot of confidence and let me play how I want to play. He stressed to me he wants me to be myself. And that's been the biggest thing this year.' Berhalter leads the Whitecaps in tackles (41) and is tied for third on the team in MLS goal contributions with five (one goal and four assists). He was named to the CONCACAF Champions Cup Best XI with three goals and two assists. Blackmon has quarterbacked a defence that has conceded a league-low 152 shots (44 shots on target). He has also contributed two goals in MLS play and another in the Champions Cup. White's 10 goals are tied for the fourth most in MLS. He is scoring 0.89 goals per 90 minutes, second best in the league. 'The group of guys has been together now for three to four years, so everyone knows each other really well,' said Berhalter. 'It is fun, especially when we're winning and getting better … Now it's time to win a trophy, to really cement this team.' The commissioner's picks are forwards Patrick Agyemang of Charlotte FC and Mexican international Hirving (Chucky) Lozano of San Diego FC Lozano is joined by Anders Dreyer and Jeppe Tverskov from expansion San Diego, which stood second in the Western Conference at 10-5-3 before midweek play. The three all-star selections are the most by an expansion team since Atlanta United in 2017 (Miguel Almirón, Greg Garza, Michael Parkhurst). Columbus Crew forward Diego Rossi earned his fourth all-star selection, while LAFC's Denis Bouanga, Philadelphia Union's Jakob Glesnes and FC Cincinnati's Miles Robinson will make their third all-star appearances. Fifteen players are first-time all-stars Sixteen different countries (by birth) are represented on the roster, led by the U.S with nine players and Denmark with three. Other countries represented are Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Spain and Uruguay. The roster features six players aged 24 or younger, including 20-year-old Alex Freeman of Orlando City. At the other end of the age scale are Inter Miami's Lionel Messi (38) and Jordi Alba (36). Austin's Brandon Vázquez and San Diego's Lozano previously played in the Mexican league. Vázquez appeared in 49 matches for CF Monterrey, while Lozano made 149 appearances for Pachuca. All-Star Roster (x- denotes players who were voted in, y- denotes coach's selection, z- denotes commissioner's pick). Goalkeepers: x-Dayne St. Clair, Minnesota United; y-Brad Stuver, Austin FC; y-Yohei Takaoka, Vancouver Whitecaps. Thursdays Keep up to date on sports with Mike McIntyre's weekly newsletter. Defenders: y-Jordi Alba, Inter Miami; y-Max Arfsten, Columbus Crew; x-Tristan Blackmon, Vancouver Whitecaps; x-Michael Boxall, Minnesota United; x-Alex Freeman, Orlando City; y-Jakob Glesnes, Philadelphia Union; y-Andy Najar, Nashville SC; y-Miles Robinson, FC Cincinnati. Midfielders: x-Sebastian Berhalter, Vancouver Whitecaps; y-David Da Costa, Portland Timbers; x-Evander, FC Cincinnati; x-Diego Luna, Real Salt Lake; y-Jeppe Tverskov, San Diego FC; y-Philip Zinckernagel, Chicago Fire. Forwards/Wingers: z-Patrick Agyemang, Charlotte FC; x-Tai Baribo, Philadelphia Union; x-Denis Bouanga, LAFC; x-Anders Dreyer, San Diego FC; z-Hirving (Chucky) Lozano, San Diego FC; x-Lionel Messi, Inter Miami; y-Diego Rossi, Columbus Crew; y-Brandon Vázquez, Austin FC; x-Brian White, Vancouver Whitecaps. — This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 25, 2025.
The Hindu
15-06-2025
- Sport
- The Hindu
How did teams qualify for FIFA Club World Cup 2025?
The inaugural edition of the revamped FIFA Club World Cup is set to kick off in the United States on June 14. Thirty-two teams from six football federations around the world will compete over a month for the trophy, with the event also acting as a dress rehearsal for the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup to be held in the USA, Canada and Mexico in the summer of 2026. The revamped version of the competition, is set to be held every four years. HOW DID TEAMS QUALIFY FOR CLUB WORLD CUP 2025? The teams for the Club World Cup were chosen after their performances were reviewed during the four years from 2021 to 2024. ALSO REAd | Border Patrol will be at the Club World Cup, says it's routine to provide security for such events First and foremost, the respective continental competition winners from each year were given direct entry. Next, the best-performing teams in each confederation over the specific period were handed the entry via the ranking pathway. Out of the six football federations, UEFA received the most slots with 12. Apart from this, Major League Soccer side Inter Miami also received the chance to play in the tournament as a representative of the host nation. Another MLS side, Los Angeles FC, booked a spot after beating Club América in a playoff match to decide who gets the spot left vacant by Mexican side Club Leon, which was kicked out of the tournament in March due to an ownership rule breach. Related Topics FIFA Club World Cup
Fox Sports
07-06-2025
- Sport
- Fox Sports
USMNT lose third straight as Turkey makes them pay for sloppy defense
Turkey took advantage of a sloppy defense to beat the United States 2-1 in a rainy friendly on Saturday, dealing the Americans their third straight loss as Arda Guler and Kerem Akturkoglu scored in a 2-minute, 20-second span midway through the first half. Jack McGlynn scored 59 seconds in for the U.S., which was missing many regulars as coach Mauricio Pochettino revamped his roster following a dismal performance at the CONCACAF Nations League final four in March. With a year to go before co-hosting the World Cup, the U.S. plays Switzerland on Tuesday at Nashville, Tennessee, in another friendly, then opens the CONCACAF Gold Cup against Trinidad and Tobago on June 15. The Americans dropped to 5-4 under Pochettino, who took over after first-round elimination last year's Copa America led the U.S. Soccer Federation to fire coach Gregg Berhalter. They have lost three straight for the second time in a year. Pochettino changed eight starters from the Nations League loss to Canada in March, keeping only left back Max Arfsten, winger Diego Luna and forward Patrick Agyemang. Defender Alex Freeman, a 20-year-old son of former NFL All-Pro receiver Antonio Freeman, started in his U.S. debut. Matt Freese, a starter at Major League Soccer's New York City, made his debut in goal. Matt Turner, the usual starter since 2022, didn't play for Crystal Palace after March 1. McGlynn scored when he ran onto a pass from Malik Tilman, took several touches, cut inside and curled a left-footed shot from just outside the penalty area inside the far post for his second goal in five international appearances. It was the earliest U.S. goal since Shaq Moore scored 20 seconds in against Canada during the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup. Turkey tied it in the 24th minute when Freese tapped the ball to Johnny Cardoso, whose pass ricocheted off a leg and past Freese for Güler's fifth international goal. Then in the 27th, Miles Robinson tried to clear Oğuz Aydın's shot and the ball went to Aktürkoğlu, who one-timed a bouncing shot past Freese for his 12th international goal and sixth in eight games. Turkey goalkeeper Berke Ozer also made his international debut. Preparing for the start of its World Cup qualifying campaign in September, Turkey has six wins, one loss and one draw in its last eight games. Reporting by The Associated Press. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! recommended Get more from United States Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
