Club World Cup Expert Picks and Predictions

The revamped Club World Cup is finally here, bringing with it a host of fascinating storylines as the tournament gets underway.

Thirty-two diverse teams have qualified for this U.S.-hosted competition. While each team shares the goal of going as far as possible, the specific narratives and objectives for every participant are quite varied. For the qualified European powerhouses like Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Inter, the focus is squarely on claiming the ultimate prize, particularly as they may seek redemption after missing out on certain major domestic or continental honors recently.

Beyond the traditional elite, the 22 non-European teams are eager to impress on a global stage. This tournament represents a significant opportunity for them to measure their abilities and showcase the quality of the leagues and regions they represent. This group includes three MLS teams – Inter Miami, Seattle Sounders, and LAFC – as well as Saudi Pro League participant Al-Hilal. Al-Hilal has made significant investments, including appointing manager Jorge Jesus, though perhaps didn`t add high-profile player signings specifically targeting this iteration of the tournament despite their general transfer activity.

With the Club World Cup action set to begin, here is a look at the expert picks and predictions from the CBS Sports team:

Club World Cup Predictions Table

Expert Analysis of Predictions

Club World Cup Winner: Real Madrid

by James Benge

Quite simply, they are the strongest team in the competition. Given the absence of Barcelona and several top Premier League clubs, there are few teams realistically capable of challenging them closely. While some rivals have recently invested heavily in transfers, PSG already possess a squad they know is sufficient.

Biggest Surprise Team: River Plate

by Francesco Porzio

Franco Mastantuono has demonstrated his potential as one of the world`s best young talents and is expected to join Real Madrid after this tournament. Coach Marcelo Gallardo brings the necessary experience to lead the Argentinian side to success, and with a talented squad, they have a real chance to make a significant impact.

Biggest Disappointment: Inter Miami

by Chuck Booth

Miami`s difficulties in knockout competitions are well-documented. The Club World Cup is likely to highlight the gap MLS still needs to bridge to compete with teams globally. Operating within a salary cap league structure, while Miami might have the most talented player in their group, they are likely to struggle with squad depth and could exit in the group stage.

Top Scorer: Erling Haaland (Man City)

by Pardeep Cattry

Erling Haaland appears fully recovered from the ankle issue that sidelined him earlier in the spring. Since May 2nd, he`s played seven matches for club and country, scoring in his last three outings. Expect him to carry this impressive scoring form into the Club World Cup and continue his remarkable goal-scoring rate.

Player of the Tournament: Vitinha (PSG)

by James Benge

In the heat of the American summer, players who can effectively control the game`s pace will be crucial. PSG possesses one of the world`s best in Vitinha for this exact role.

Player Who Earns a Big Move: Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus)

by Francesco Porzio

The Juventus forward is certainly a player who could attract attention after the Club World Cup. Vlahovic is reportedly expected to leave the Italian club in the summer of 2025, as his current contract runs until 2026. The Club World Cup could provide him with the perfect platform to demonstrate to the world why Juventus invested approximately $70 million to sign him from Fiorentina in January 2022.