The highly anticipated showdown between Juventus and Manchester City will decide who finishes top of Group G at the 2025 Club World Cup. While both teams have already secured a spot in the round of 16, grabbing first place could make all the difference in avoiding tough opponents in the knockout stage. The match takes place this Thursday, June 26, at the Camping World Stadium in Orlando, the perfect venue for a clash between two European powerhouses.

Kickoff time, referee, and what’s at stake

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 PM Eastern Time (ET), or 1:00 PM in Mexico. French referee Clément Turpin will be in charge, and a high-intensity match is expected. Both managers —Igor Tudor for Juventus and Pep Guardiola for City— are expected to field strong lineups, knowing a top spot could help them avoid giants like Real Madrid in the next round.

Juve riding high

Juve only needs a draw to finish top. They’ve looked solid with wins over Al-Ain and Wydad, and young Turkish star Kenan Yildiz has already scored three goals in the tournament. Their confidence is also boosted by a 2–0 win over City in their last Champions League meeting back in December 2024—proof they can go toe-to-toe with the reigning champions.

City under pressure to win

Manchester City needs all three points if they want to avoid finishing second. Guardiola is expected to go with a full attacking setup, including Erling Haaland, Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, Rodri, and Omar Marmoush, though Claudio Echeverri is out injured. Still, the English side is full of confidence after big wins in their first two matches and will be eager to prove they’re still the team to beat globally.

Expected lineups and matchday buzz

Even though both are through, this match is a big test of form. Juventus is building around youth and fresh ambition, while City wants to assert its status after winning the tournament in 2023. Midfield will be the battleground, with players like Manuel Locatelli, Tijjani Reijnders, Weston McKennie, and Rodri all expected to play key roles in the tactical chess match.

Juventus is likely to start Michele Di Gregorio, Pierre Kalulu, Khéphren Thuram, Yildiz, and Randal Kolo Muani, with Francisco Conceição still a question mark. City will counter with Ederson, Joško Gvardiol, Rúben Dias, Savinho, and, of course, Haaland up top. Everything’s set for a top-tier showdown between two serious title contenders.