The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup holds considerable significance for German football, with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund both engaged in high-stakes quarterfinals. Bayern is set to play against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), while Dortmund will face Real Madrid in all-European encounters. Beyond these continental power duels, matches against teams from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Arab world are providing valuable insights into global football trends. “Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, we need to pay close attention to the level of quality from teams on these continents,” said Michael Rummenigge, a former striker for Bayern and Dortmund and the brother of Bayern board member Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. Despite initial European skepticism, Rummenigge noted the tournament is gaining global traction. He emphasised that the Club World Cup offers crucial lessons for clubs as they prepare for next season’s Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League campaigns, according to Xinhua reports. “Progressing to the next round enhances the international reputation of the Bundesliga,” added the three-time German title winner. Dortmund coach Niko Kovac acknowledged that South American and European teams are dominating the competition but stressed the importance of intercontinental matchups. As was seen in the case of the recent match between England’s Manchester City and Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal – in which the English side was beaten 3-4. “It’s vital for European teams to play against the best from other continents,” said Kovac. “European fans and clubs are beginning to realise that South American teams, and their supporters, approach this tournament very differently.” Kovac also sees broader value in the tournament, especially in preparing European national teams for the 2026 World Cup concerning travel demands, climate adaptation, and logistical planning. Bayern manager Vincent Kompany echoed this sentiment, calling the exposure to diverse tactical systems and styles “overwhelmingly interesting.” Although both German sides may be seen as underdogs against PSG and Real Madrid, Michael Rummenigge believes the experience will be invaluable. “It would be priceless if both teams—or at least one—advance to the semifinals,” he said. The quarterfinals also reignite rivalries: while Bayern has bested PSG in recent duels, the French side claimed the 2025 Champions League title in Munich. Meanwhile, Real Madrid defeated Dortmund in the 2024 final. “We may be the underdog, but with teamwork, we can cross the finish line,” said Kovac. With IANS Inputs