Raphael Durand
Dailysports's expert
One of the second round matches of the FIFA Club World Cup group stage will take place on Thursday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, where Palmeiras will face Cairo’s Al Ahly. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this encounter with solid odds.
Match preview
The Brazilian giants head into the second round of the 2025 Club World Cup having failed to score in their opener against Porto (0-0). Palmeiras looked the sharper side, but were let down by poor finishing. Despite dominating in shots and expected goals, Abel Ferreira’s team couldn’t deliver a convincing attacking performance yet again — making it the fourth time in five tournament matches they’ve failed to win in regulation time.
Their attacking play relies on youth and wing movement, but in real match situations this rarely leads to results. A key feature of Palmeiras’ game remains their defensive organization — the team rarely concedes more than one goal per match. Nevertheless, with their attacking inefficiency and lack of cutting edge in the final third, the Brazilians often look vulnerable against compact defenses.
The Egyptian powerhouse continues to prove its resilience on the international stage: Al Ahly drew with Inter Miami (0-0) in their opening match, and even had a real chance to win but squandered a penalty. José Riveiro’s side is rock-solid at the back, extending their clean sheet streak to three matches and remaining unbeaten in regulation time in their last four Club World Cup games.
Even after losing creative midfielder Emam Ashour, Al Ahly’s game structure remains balanced — emphasizing control of the midfield and quick transitions from defense. The club knows how to contain favorites and is always ready to punish mistakes. A reliable back line, minimal defensive lapses, and tactical discipline make Al Ahly a serious challenge even for South American opposition.
Probable lineups
- Palmeiras: Weverton – Agustin Hiai, Gustavo Gomez, Murilo – Felipe Anderson, Richard Rios, Anibal Moreno, Joaquin Piquerez – Estevao, Vitor Roque, Mauricio
- Al Ahly: Mohamed El-Shenawy – Mohamed Hany, Ashraf Dari, Yasser El-Hanafi, Ahmed Kouka – Marwan Attia, Hamdi Fathi, Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane – Mahmoud Trezeguet, Emam Ashour, Wissam Abu Ali
Match facts and head-to-head
- Palmeiras have scored more than two goals in only 3 of their last 10 international matches
- Al Ahly have conceded just 5 goals in their last six Club World Cup matches
- In 4 of Palmeiras’ last 5 Club World Cup games, no more than two goals were scored in 90 minutes
Prediction
This game promises to be a cautious affair from both sides. Palmeiras are clearly struggling to convert chances against Al Ahly’s compact and well-drilled defense. The Egyptians are experts at shutting down games and denying opponents attacking freedom. Our bet for this match is Under 2.5 goals at odds of 1.86.
