PSG preparations under way: Bayern expecting 'fierce contest'

The critical stage of the Club World Cup has begun! After the victory over Flamengo in the round of 16, FC Bayern started preparations for the eagerly anticipated quarter-final against UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. The knockout clash against the French side takes place this Saturday in Atlanta in the US state of Georgia (kick-off 18:00 CEST). The players had enjoyed a day off yesterday and relaxed at the team hotel with other sports and leisure activities. On Wednesday morning, it was back to work on the training pitch at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

At full strength

Head coach Vincent Kompany was able to welcome his complete Club World Cup squad at training, including Kingsley Coman, who was forced off with a knock in the 4-2 win against Flamengo. As usual, the team arrived by bus at the training ground at 9 am local time in temperatures of 30 degrees and warmed up in the fitness test with some cycling and other exercises. Then it was down to business on the pitch.

“It’s going to be another difficult match against PSG, they’ve had an unbelievable season,” said Harry Kane after the Flamengo match, in which he starred with two goals. “We already played against them this season and came out on top. We have to try to take the energy and the good feeling into this match. We know it’s going to be difficult but we feel like we can beat anyone when we’re at our top level,” added the Englishman. Leon Goretzka couldn’t hide his excitement about this European showdown at international level, either. “That’s certainly going to be another fierce contest, we’re looking forward to it,” commented the midfielder. Bayern have won their last four competitive meetings with PSG without conceding, most recently in November 2024 with a 1-0 victory at the Allianz Arena in the league phase of the Champions League.

Possible route to the final

If they beat Paris, Bayern will meet the winners of the game between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in the semi-finals in New York City on 9 July (15:00 local time, 21:00 CEST). The final of the Club World Cup 2025 takes place at the same time on 13 July, also in the 80,000-capacity stadium.

The support of local Bayern fans will be important in Atlanta. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

All FIFA Club World Cup matches are being broadcast live and for free by streaming service DAZN, although broadcasters will differ in some countries.

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