After a stunning 4–0 defeat to PSG in the semifinals at the MetLife Stadium, Real Madrid’s campaign at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup came to a sudden end. But unlike other tournaments, there’s no third-place match for them to fight in. Here's why.

No bronze medal game—by design

 For this new 32-team format, FIFA decided to eliminate the third-place play-off entirely. According to the governing body, the move is intentional, designed to allow clubs and players who are knocked out to return home sooner and focus on their upcoming season commitments.

 Bigger calendar, tighter schedules

This expanded Club World Cup spans nearly a month—from June 14 to July 13—clashing with domestic preseason schedules. By avoiding a bronze match, FIFA smooths the transition, ensuring eliminated teams aren’t stuck in the U.S. while balancing club duties back home.

A rational move—or missed opportunity?

While many international competitions use a third-place match for pride or ranking, FIFA judged that it holds limited value here. They opted for clarity and player welfare over a trophy that few fans watch.

Real Madrid’s season reset

Absent from the third-place fixture, Real can now prepare for La Liga and European challenges. There’s been no disruption of their preseason rhythm, though La Liga has denied Madrid’s request to delay their domestic season opener—with or without this surprising Club World Cup outcome .