The Middle Tier: Surprise Contenders for the 2025 Club World Cup: A Look at the Dark Horses

As the 2025 Club World Cup approaches, the spotlight has been on the top-tier teams like Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich. However, there are several other teams that are capable of making a significant impact in the tournament. Here's a look at the middle tier of the 32 teams participating in the Club World Cup, based on their chances to reach the final stages:

Borussia Dortmund has been one of the most exciting and dynamic teams in German football for years. This season has been no different for them as they've shown flashes of brilliance and have been a constant threat on the pitch. They have a talented squad with the likes of Erling Haaland, Julian Brandt, and Julian Weigl. If they can maintain their form and play to their potential, they could be a force to be reckoned with in the Club World Cup.

Tottenham Hotspur (England)

Tottenham Hotspur has been one of the most consistent and reliable teams in English football for years. This season has been no different for them as they've shown great form and have been a constant threat on the pitch. They have a talented squad with the likes of Harry Kane, Son Heung-min, and Dele Alli. If they can maintain their form and play to their potential, they could be a dark horse in the Club World Cup.

Napoli (Italy)

Napoli has been one of the most dominant clubs in Italian football for years, but this season has been a bit of a disappointment for them as well. They've struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, but they still have a talented squad with the likes of Dries Mertens, Lorenzo Insigne, and Arnaut Danjuma. If they can find their form and play to their potential, they could be a force to be reckoned with in the Club World Cup.

Leverkusen (Germany)

Leverkusen has always been known for their tactical brilliance and solid defense on the pitch. This season has been no different for them as they've shown great form and have been a constant threat on the pitch. They have a talented squad with the likes of Kai Havertz, Yaya Toure, and Edin Dzeko. If they can play to their potential and stay healthy, they could be a threat in the Club World Cup.

In conclusion, these teams are not as high-profile as some of the top-tier clubs, but they still have what it takes to make a significant impact in the 2025 Club World Cup. With talented squads and the right approach, any one of these teams could be a force to be reckoned with in the tournament.