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2025 FIFA Club World Cup Match Preview: Al Ain vs. Juventus

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues with a highly anticipated Group G showdown between AFC Champions League winners Al Ain and Serie A giants Juventus at Audi Field in Washington, D.C.. Juventus will be making their Club World Cup debut, while Al Ain returns for their second appearance in the tournament.

Match Details

Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025

Time: 2:00 AM ET / 11:00 PM PT (June 18)

Venue: Audi Field, Washington, D.C.

Broadcast: DAZN (Live & Free)

Team Overview & Recent Form

Al Ain (United Arab Emirates – AFC Champions League Winners)

Al Ain secured their second AFC Champions League title in May 2024, defeating Yokohama F. Marinos 6-3 over two legs. After a 2-1 first-leg loss in Japan, they responded with a dominant 5-1 victory at home, cementing their place in the FIFA Club World Cup. However, their domestic form has been inconsistent, finishing fifth in the UAE Pro League. Their last match was a 1-0 win over Auckland City in a friendly.

Key Players to Watch

Soufiane Rahimi – AFC Champions League MVP, top scorer at the 2024 Paris Olympics with eight goals.

Kodjo Laba – Prolific striker with 20 goals in 21 UAE Pro League matches.

Rui Patricio – Veteran Portuguese goalkeeper, formerly of Roma and Atalanta.

Juventus (Italy – UEFA Qualification Pathway)

Juventus qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup via the UEFA ranking system, having consistently competed in the UEFA Champions League over the past four seasons. They finished fourth in Serie A, securing a Champions League spot for 2025-26. Their recent form has been solid, winning two of their last three matches, including a 3-2 victory over Venezia. However, injuries to key players could impact their performance.

Key Players to Watch

Randal Kolo Muani – French forward, expected to lead the attack.

Manuel Locatelli – Midfield anchor, recovering from an ankle injury.

Bremer – Defensive leader, crucial for Juventus’ backline.

Tactical Analysis & Key Matchups

Al Ain’s Attack vs. Juventus’ Defense – Rahimi and Laba will test Juventus’ backline.

Midfield Battle – Locatelli vs. Yahia Nader will be a key duel.

Set-Piece Threats – Both teams have strong aerial players capable of scoring from corners and free kicks.

MATCH ODDS

Al Ain + 1100                     Draw + 600            Juventus -475

Over 3.5 + 125                  Under 3.5 – 160

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, June 17, 2025

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