Bayern Munich vs Auckland City: Club World Cup Preview

Bayern Munich are among the favorites to lift the Club World Cup.

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Bayern Munich are among the favorites to lift the Club World Cup.

Bayern Munich vs Auckland City: Club World Cup Preview

Stephen Awino 13:30 - 14.06.2025

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich take on New Zealand's Auckland City in their 2025 Club Wolrd Cup opener fixture.

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off in the USA on Saturday with eyes on Bayern Munich's opener against and Auckland City.

On paper, it’s a classic mismatch of Europe’s elite versus Oceania’s underdogs, but this clash promises its own layer of intrigue.

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Bayern Munich, champions of Germany and one of UEFA’s flag bearers, enter the tournament with silverware in mind.

Meanwhile, Auckland City, the pride of New Zealand and Oceania, are determined to make the most of their twelfth appearance at the tournament, a record in itself.

Bayern Munich vs Auckland City Team News

Club World Cup
Bayern Munich have a real chance at the Club World Cup. Leroy Sane is expected to leave Bayern Munich, with Arsenal interested (Credit: Imago)

Fresh off a commanding Bundesliga campaign, Bayern arrive in the United States under the stewardship of Vincent Kompany, who has already stamped his authority on the squad.

Having gone seven matches unbeaten and securing the domestic title with ease, Bayern are one of the favourites to lift the expanded 32-team Club World Cup trophy.

However, with some of their European stars arriving late from international duty — and the likes of Dayot Upamecano returning from injury, Kompany is expected to deploy a rotated squad.

This opens the door for Oceania's underdogs to try and exploit an opportunity tot secure an underdog win.

Auckland City X Factor

Auckland City remain the dominant force in Oceania, having clinched their OFC Champions League title earlier this year.

But they face an enormous challenge against a side that operates on a completely different scale , both in terms of resources and professionalism.

Under the stewardship of coach Albert Riera, the Kiwi outfit boasts a recent form of three consecutive wins in domestic competition which hows they’re not just here to make up the numbers.

The odds heavily favour Bayern Munich.However, the romance of football means surprises can never be ruled out entirely.

Expect Bayern to dominate possession, press high, and test Auckland’s defensive discipline from the opening whistle.

Auckland will likely adopt a low block, looking for counter-attacking moments or set-piece opportunities.