The FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group stage heats up as Brazilian giants Palmeiras face African powerhouse Al Ahly at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on Thursday, June 19. Both teams are desperate for their first win after goalless draws in their opening Group A matches—Palmeiras against Porto and Al Ahly against Inter Miami.
With only two teams advancing from the group, this clash is pivotal. Palmeiras, the 2021 Copa Libertadores champions, bring South American flair, while Al Ahly, Africa’s most decorated club, aim to make a global statement. Historical encounters between these sides have been tight, with Palmeiras winning 2-0 in 2022 and Al Ahly triumphing on penalties after a 0-0 draw in 2021.
Prediction
Palmeiras enter as favorites, leveraging their attacking depth and high-pressing style that troubled Porto in their opener. Despite failing to score, the Brazilians dominated possession and created numerous chances, only thwarted by exceptional goalkeeping. Chelsea-bound wonderkid Estevao Willian, with 13 goals and nine assists in the 2024 Brasileirao, remains a constant threat, capable of unlocking compact defenses.
Al Ahly, however, are no pushovers. Their disciplined defense and quick transitions held Inter Miami at bay, though a missed penalty by Trezeguet highlighted their struggle to convert chances. The absence of star midfielder Emam Ashour due to a broken collarbone further dents their creativity. Palmeiras’ superior shot volume—88 in their last five matches—suggests they’ll control the game, but Al Ahly’s resilience could keep it close. A low-scoring affair is likely, with Palmeiras edging out a 1-0 victory, capitalizing on their set-piece prowess and Al Ahly’s defensive lapses in transition.
Possible lineups
Palmeiras are expected to field a 3-4-3 formation under coach Abel Ferreira, maintaining the lineup that impressed against Porto. Weverton will guard the goal, with a back three of Michel Cerqueira, Gustavo Gomez, and Facundo Giay. Joaquin Piquerez and Anibal Moreno will anchor the midfield alongside Richard Rios and Felipe Anderson, providing balance. Up top, Estevao Willian, Mauricio, and Vitor Roque will lead the attack, with Roque looking to break his tournament duck.
Al Ahly, managed by Jose Riveiro, are likely to deploy a 4-3-1-2 setup despite injury concerns. Mohamed El Shenawy will start in goal, protected by defenders Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rami Dari, and Khaled Kouka. The midfield trio of Marwan Attia, Alioune Fathy, and Mohamed Ben Romdhane will aim to disrupt Palmeiras’ rhythm, with Zizo stepping in for the injured Emam Ashour as the playmaker. Wessam Abou Ali and Trezeguet will spearhead the attack, hoping to exploit counter-attacking opportunities.
Betting tips
This match offers intriguing opportunities on platforms like Betway, SportPesa, and 22Bet. Palmeiras are favored to win at odds of around 1.60, reflecting their attacking edge and historical dominance over Al Ahly. Given both teams’ recent goalless draws and strong defensive records—Palmeiras with seven clean sheets and Al Ahly with five in their last 10 matches—betting on Under 2.5 Goals at odds of 1.85 is a solid choice.
The “Both Teams to Score: No” market at 1.80 also holds value, as Al Ahly’s attack may struggle without Ashour against Palmeiras’ organized backline. For risk-takers, Estevao Willian as an Anytime Goalscorer at 2.00 is tempting, given his flair and involvement in Palmeiras’ attacking play. Alternatively, a Palmeiras win with a -1.0 Asian Handicap at 2.10 could yield higher returns if the Brazilians secure a multi-goal victory.