Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert
On Thursday, June 19, in the second round of the FIFA Club World Cup group stage, Palmeiras will host Al Ahly. Here’s my take on who will emerge victorious in this clash.
Key facts and head-to-head history
- Palmeiras have lost just 2 of their last 10 matches.
- Al Ahly have suffered only 1 defeat in their previous 10 games.
- Three of Palmeiras’ last five matches have featured over 2 goals.
- This will be just the third ever meeting between these clubs. In the previous two encounters, Palmeiras won once, while Al Ahly claimed victory once in a penalty shootout.
Match preview
Palmeiras arrived at the Club World Cup as one of Brazil’s most formidable sides in recent years, having lifted the Copa Libertadores in 2021.
Currently, Palmeiras sit fourth in the Brazilian Serie A, just two points behind the leaders with a game in hand. However, the "Verdão" have lost their last two league outings—0-2 against Flamengo and 1-2 to Cruzeiro.
Palmeiras kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a 0-0 draw against Porto. Despite the result, the Brazilian side looked sharp and created several clear-cut chances to snatch a win.
As for Al Ahly, this is their tenth appearance at the Club World Cup—a testament to their dominance in African football. In the Egyptian Premier League, the "Red Devils" secured their 45th title in history, edging Pyramids by two points.
In the tournament opener, Al Ahly faced Inter Miami, the hosts of this year’s competition. The Egyptians created plenty of chances in the first half, even missing a penalty, and spent much of the second half defending against Lionel Messi’s attacks. The match ended in a goalless draw.
Probable lineups
- Palmeiras: Weverton; Guiá, Gómez, Cerqueira; Anderson, Ríos, Moreno, Piquerez; Estevão, Mauricio, Roque
- Al Ahly: El-Shenawy; Hany, Dari, Ibrahim, Kouka; Ben Romdhane, Attia, Fathi; Zizo, Trezeguet, Ali
Palmeiras vs Al Ahly prediction
Brazilian teams have been impressive at this Club World Cup, with their fans generating a fantastic atmosphere in the stands. My money is on Palmeiras to take the win in this match.
