An expanded Club World Cup marked by empty seats, slashed ticket prices, searing heat, weather-delayed matches and a criticized field surface ended in a surprise victory by Chelsea.

Kylian Mbappé returns to pitch in Real Madrid’s FIFA Club World Cup win over Juventus Kylian Mbappé looks on at the crowd after Real Madrid's 1-0 win over Juventus.© FIFA via Getty Images ...

Kylian Mbappé jogged, clapped his hands together and waved to a crowd of excited fans before checking into the Club World Cup for the first time.

Kylian Mbappé's absence has been acutely felt. Not just by Real Madrid, but by tournament organisers, who will have been pleased to see one of the world's premier players back on the pitch.

Kylian Mbappe looks set to make his Club World Cup debut when his Real Madrid side face Juventus in the last 16 at the Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday, in a major boost for the 15-time European champions ...

Kylian Mbappé made his return, while Gonzalo García scored the game-winner to help Real Madrid advance past Juventus in the Club World Cup.

Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe waves during a warmup for the Club World Cup round of 16 soccer match between Real Madrid and Juventus in Miami Gardens, Fla., Tuesday, July 1, 2025.

Kylian Mbappé makes his Club World Cup debut in Real Madrid's win over Juventus Kylian Mbappé jogged, clapped his hands together and waved to a crowd of excited fans before checking into the ...