Fifa’s decision to expand the Club World Cup from seven to 32 teams this summer has already sparked legal complaints from players’ union Fifpro and the World Leagues Association.
But the gulf in class between Bayern and Auckland on Sunday is likely to raise further questions about the new format of the competition.
Winners of the Oceania Champions League in each of the past four years, Auckland have made it to the tournament on that merit. Indeed, the New Zealanders are appearing in the competition for the 12th time – more than any other side.
However, whether they should be competing in the same group as a club of Bayern’s stature is another matter.
In last year’s Fifa Intercontinental Cup, which comprised six teams and effectively replaced the Club World Cup in 2024, Auckland were thumped 6-2 by Al Ain in the first round.
And in the final seven-team Club World Cup in 2023, they lost 3-0 to Saudi club Al-Ittihad in their only match.
“These games are so special for Auckland City,” said former England midfielder Anita Asante, who was co-commentating on Sunday’s game for Channel 5. “These guys are heroes to lots of budding football stars in New Zealand.”
Fans following BBC Sport’s live text coverage of the game were less enamoured by the Group C mismatch:
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Sean: Watching Bayern tear apart a bunch of part-timers is just not it and the sooner Fifa realise it, the better. This isn’t entertainment at all, let’s not kid ourselves otherwise.
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Sam: I know Bayern didn’t choose who they play, but I do feel putting out this 11 was perhaps not the most sporting thing to do. This match makes uncomfortable viewing.
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Richard: Isn’t that what a pre-season friendly is for, not a competition with a prize of £100m for the winners?
Was there any sympathy for the New Zealanders from their opponents?
Asked after the final whistle whether he felt for Auckland, France international Olise simply replied: “No.”
