The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup continues with a crucial Group A showdown between Palmeiras and Al Ahly at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Both teams are searching for their first win of the tournament, making this a pivotal encounter in the race for knockout-stage qualification.
Match Details
Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT
Venue: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, NJ
Broadcast: DAZN (Live & Free)
Team Overview & Recent Form
Palmeiras (Brazil – Copa Libertadores Champions)
Palmeiras opened their Club World Cup campaign with a 0-0 draw against FC Porto, showcasing a solid defensive performance but struggling to convert chances. The Brazilian side has kept eight clean sheets in their last 11 matches, proving their defensive resilience. Historically, Palmeiras has had the upper hand against Al Ahly, winning their last meeting 2-0 in the 2022 FIFA Intercontinental Cup semi-finals. However, they must improve their attacking efficiency to secure three points in this fixture.
Key Players to Watch
Vitor Roque – Young Brazilian forward, expected to lead the attack.
Felipe Anderson – Midfield maestro, crucial for Palmeiras’ creativity.
Gustavo Gómez – Defensive leader, anchoring the backline.
Al Ahly (Egypt – CAF Champions League Winners)
Al Ahly also settled for a 0-0 draw in their opener against Inter Miami, missing a golden opportunity to score from the penalty spot. The Egyptian giants have been unbeaten in their last nine competitive matches, demonstrating their ability to grind out results. However, they suffered a major setback as star midfielder Emam Ashour was ruled out for the tournament due to a broken collarbone. His absence could impact their attacking fluidity.
Key Players to Watch
Trezeguet – Experienced winger, looking to step up in Ashour’s absence.
Mohamed El-Shenawi – Veteran goalkeeper, crucial for Al Ahly’s defensive stability.
Wessam Abou Ali – Striker with 16 goals this season, expected to be a key attacking threat.
Tactical Analysis & Key Matchups
Palmeiras’ Defense vs. Al Ahly’s Attack – Palmeiras has been defensively solid, but Al Ahly boasts dangerous forwards.
Midfield Battle – Felipe Anderson vs. Zizo will be a key duel in controlling possession.
Set-Piece Threats – Both teams have aerial specialists capable of scoring from corners and free kicks.
MATCH ODDS
Palmeiras – 165 Draw + 295 Al Ahly + 475
Over 2.5 + 105 Under 2.5 – 130
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, June 18, 2025
