Preparing for Round 3 of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in the United States. The competition level is rising so here’s the ideal XI we recommend to tackle this round, with a mix of big clashes, potential breakout picks, and players ready to shine.
🥅 Gianluigi Donnarumma (Seattle Sounders vs PSG)
PSG are heavy favorites against Seattle and Donnarumma could bring home a clean sheet with little trouble. The defensive bonus potential is high, and if PSG control the game as expected, Gigio is a smart budget-friendly pick.
🧠 João Cancelo (Al Hilal vs CF Pachuca)
We all know Cancelo, a full-back who plays like an extra playmaker. Against Pachuca, he’ll dominate the flank, drift inside, and actively join Al Hilal’s attacking build-up. He’s got it all: assists, successful dribbles, key passes. João is back, and he’s a must.
🛵 Julian Ryerson (Borussia Dortmund vs Ulsan HD)
Ryerson is a relentless engine and Dortmund are strong favorites against Ulsan. The Norwegian has freedom to push forward and can contribute in the final third while collecting fantasy points from duels, crosses, and accurate passing.
🇧🇷 Ayrton (LAFC vs Flamengo)
A pick for fantasy experts. Ayrton constantly pushes up the left flank and loves to get to the byline. Against LAFC, the game could be more open than expected, and he has the tools to make a real impact. Great value for money.
🪄 Rodrigo Mora (FC Porto vs Al Ahly)
Porto haven’t had the best start to the tournament, but 18-year-old Mora remains a low-cost, high-upside pick. He’s a creative midfielder capable of surprise plays. Against Al Ahly, he and Porto could take control and he’s our wildcard of the round.
🫡 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic (Al Hilal vs CF Pachuca)
The Sergeant is a fantasy lock in international tournaments: physicality, late runs, headers, long shots and leadership. He’ll run the show against Pachuca and is a serious goal or assist threat. For this round, we at Sofascore say: promote the Sergeant to Captain.
🫰 Rayan Cherki (Juventus vs Manchester City)
A bold pick, but one with huge upside. Cherki is one of the rare players who can light up a game with one moment of brilliance, even against a strong side like Juventus. His creativity could trouble an Italian defense weakened by key absences.
🥶 Cole Palmer (ES Tunis vs Chelsea)
Palmer is the fantasy certainty in this Chelsea side. He takes penalties, starts every game, and is at the heart of every attacking move. Against ES Tunis, he has huge upside for goals, assists, and key chance creation. One of the best options of the round.
🕺Vinícius Júnior (RB Salzburg vs Real Madrid)
With or without Mbappé, Vinícius remains Real Madrid’s most consistent creative force. Against Salzburg, in a match that promises pace and open spaces, he can light it up at any moment providing dribbles, fouls won, chances created and goals. That’s all part of his package. If you’re looking for a reliable bonus scorer this round, Vini is your guy.
☝🏾 Bradley Barcola (Seattle Sounders vs PSG)
Another PSG name, this time up front. Maybe the most underrated name in PSG’s attack, but Barcola’s pace and unpredictability could be a nightmare for the Sounders. He’s a strong candidate for assists and don’t be surprised if he gets on the scoresheet too.
🔟 Leo Messi (Inter Miami vs Palmeiras)
Could this be his last dance? Maybe, but La Pulga still wants to put on a show just like he did against Porto with a trademark free-kick. Against Palmeiras, it’ll be tough, but every ball will go through him. Even without a goal, his presence brings consistent Fantasy points from passes, chances created, and dribbles. Timeless.
This is a balanced XI, combining international superstars and sneaky high-value picks, perfect to dominate Round 3. Keep an eye on confirmed lineups and remember that in the Club World Cup, one mistake can cost you… but the right hunch can make you soar!