FIFA announces the first opening match of the Women’s Club World Cup
FIFA has confirmed the opening game and format for the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup, set to begin on October 8, 2025, with three Brazilian teams potentially competing in the tournament.
The Newest FIFA Competition
Following the success of the men’s FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year, FIFA has launched a women’s edition, bringing together continental champions in single-elimination matches leading to a final. The tournament follows the Intercontinental Cup format, with champions from each continent facing off until a winner is crowned.
Opening Match and Format
The first match will feature Wuhan Jiangda, the Asian champions, against Auckland United, the Oceania champions, on October 8. The winner will then face the African champion, to be announced in November. The final stage of the competition is scheduled from January 28 to February 1, 2026, although the host venue is still undecided. Current Women’s Champions League winner Arsenal will await the winner of this opening round.
Other Semi-Final
The other side of the bracket will feature Gotham FC (Concacaf champions) facing the winner of the Copa Libertadores Feminina, which begins in October.
Brazilian Teams in the Libertadores
Three Brazilian teams—Corinthians, São Paulo, and Ferroviária—will compete in the Libertadores:
- Corinthians: 2024 Brasileirão Feminino champions
- São Paulo: Runner-up
- Ferroviária: Third place
Their matches are scheduled for early October, with Corinthians and Ferroviária debuting on October 2, and São Paulo on October 3. Opponents include clubs from Venezuela and Argentina, among others.