Kickin' It in Cincy

On June 15, the eyes of the global soccer world will converge on Cincinnati, Ohio—a city more known for its chili than Champions League pedigree—as it hosts Bayern Munich and Auckland City FC at TQL Stadium for the opening weekend of the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup.

This isn’t just a match. It’s a statement. And Cincinnati is more than ready for the spotlight.

From Bundesliga Royalty to the Banks

The matchup pits German powerhouse Bayern Munich, winner of six European titles and the Bundesliga's perennial juggernaut, against Auckland City FC, Oceania's most decorated club with 12 OFC Champions League trophies. It’s a clash of continents, of resources, and of reputations—but one that embodies the spirit of the newly expanded 32-team Club World Cup format.

Bayern arrives with global stars and high expectations, despite nursing a few injuries to key players like Alphonso Davies and Hiroki Ito. In response, the club has recalled promising Moroccan defender Adam Aznou from loan—a move that underscores their intent to dominate, even against an underdog.

For Auckland City FC, this isn’t just another tournament. It’s a proving ground, a rare chance to measure themselves against the game’s elite. For fans in Cincinnati, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness David and Goliath take the pitch under their skyline.

The Global Game Finds a Home in the Midwest

Why Cincinnati? FIFA President Gianni Infantino offered a succinct answer: “a real jewel.” TQL Stadium, the $250 million home of FC Cincinnati, is quickly earning global praise for its design, acoustics, and hospitality. With a seating capacity of 26,000 and a European-style steep bowl design, it offers an intimate-yet-electric matchday experience that rivals any in the world.

The June 15 match is just the first of four games TQL will host during the month-long tournament, including marquee clashes like Borussia Dortmund vs. Mamelodi Sundowns on June 21 and Red Bull Salzburg vs. CF Pachuca on June 18. But it’s the Bayern-Auckland matchup that introduces the world to Cincinnati’s capabilities as an international soccer destination.

Before the Whistle: Where to Eat, Drink, and Soak in the City

Whether you’re a local or flying in from Munich or Auckland, the Queen City has rolled out the orange carpet. Start your day at Findlay Market, Ohio’s oldest public market, where you can grab an espresso at Urbana Cafe or a sausage at Eckerlin Meats. From there, wander into Washington Park, a cultural hub with pop-up beer gardens and live music—just blocks from the stadium.

Pre-match drinks? You’ve got options. Directly across from TQL sits The Pitch, a soccer-themed bar complete with a 3v3 turf field, rooftop views, and a crowd that bleeds orange and blue. If you prefer a more craft-centric vibe, head to Higher Gravity, where you’ll find 400+ beers, 150 wines, and an FC Cincinnati fanbase that makes every game feel like a derby.

Where to Stay if You're Visiting from Abroad—or Across the River

If you're coming from out of town, Cincinnati offers accommodations that are steps from the action.

• For soccer fanatics who want to be close to TQL, Symphony Hotel offers a boutique stay just 0.1 miles from the stadium, complete with a rooftop terrace and easy access to the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.

• If you’re looking for luxury, The Lytle Park Hotel in the business district blends modern amenities with historic architecture and a rooftop view of the city.

• Prefer art with your rest? 21c Museum Hotel offers an immersive blend of hotel and gallery, walking distance from bars, venues, and the stadium itself.

And for those just in for the weekend, chain mainstays like the Hyatt Regency, Hampton Inn & Suites, and Homewood Suites offer modern, reliable stays in the city’s walkable downtown core.

Transportation is simple. Hop on the Cincinnati Bell Connector, the city’s free streetcar that links downtown to the stadium and Findlay Market. Ample public and garage parking is also available nearby, including dedicated spots for matchday events.

A Tournament of Firsts

This year marks the first time FIFA’s Club World Cup will feature 32 teams in a World Cup-style format. Running from June 15 to July 13 across 12 U.S. cities, the tournament includes continental champions, European heavyweights, and rising clubs from Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It’s a dry run for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup—and cities like Cincinnati are treating it like an audition.

DAZN will offer free streaming of all tournament matches, with international access and no subscription required. But if you have the chance to witness the match in person, don’t pass it up.

Cincinnati is no stranger to punching above its weight—from its historic Over-the-Rhine revival to the rise of FC Cincinnati from USL darlings to MLS contenders. But hosting the FIFA Club World Cup is something different entirely. It’s not just a soccer match. It’s a debutante ball for a city stepping into the international sporting spotlight.

Tens of thousands of fans will flood the city. Millions more will watch around the world. For Cincinnati, this is a chance to redefine its place—not just in American soccer, but in global football.

On June 15, Bayern Munich and Auckland City FC will take the field. But it’s Cincinnati that has the most to gain.

Upcoming Matches at TQL Stadium – FIFA Club World Cup 2025:

• June 15, 12:00 PM – Bayern Munich vs. Auckland City FC

• June 18, 6:00 PM – CF Pachuca vs. Red Bull Salzburg

• June 21, 12:00 PM – Borussia Dortmund vs. Mamelodi Sundowns FC

• June 25, 3:00 PM – Borussia Dortmund vs. Ulsan HD FC

Tickets available via Ticketmaster and SeatGeek.
More info: Visit Cincy | TQL Stadium Events | FIFA.com