Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
The opening round of the Club World Cup group stage will feature a showdown between Palmeiras and Porto. The match is set to take place in the early hours of Monday, June 16, with kickoff scheduled for 00:00 Central European Time. I suggest a bet focused on the attacking output in this game.
Match preview
Palmeiras ranks among the strongest clubs in South America in recent years. Over the past five seasons, the team has won the Copa Libertadores twice, so underestimating them at this tournament would be a mistake.
Abel Ferreira’s side is renowned for its tactical organization, balanced squad, and ability to adapt to any opponent. In the Brasileirão, the team consistently delivers high-level performances, especially against teams of similar caliber or those who play a more open style.
The attack revolves around Brazil international Estevão, with Vitor Roque and experienced goalkeeper Weverton also standing out in the lineup. On the international stage, Palmeiras maintains impressive efficiency, particularly in high-tempo matches.
This was evident during the Copa Libertadores group stage, where the "Verdão" averaged three goals per game and confidently advanced to the playoffs. In the round of 16, they’ll face Peruvian side Universitario—a matchup unlikely to pose much trouble—while the Brazilian giants now look to progress to the knockout phase of another tournament: the Club World Cup.
Porto, despite internal challenges, remains one of the top contenders in Portugal’s Primeira Liga. Although the "Dragons" haven’t claimed the league title in six years, they consistently finish in the top three and are regulars in European competitions.
Under Anselmi, Porto traditionally showcase a combination-based, attacking style, especially against teams not accustomed to high pressing. The Portuguese side earned their Club World Cup berth thanks to their high UEFA coefficient ranking.
Ahead of the tournament, Porto played two friendlies: first defeating Morocco’s Wydad, then losing to Latvia’s Riga—though they fielded a much-rotated squad in the latter.
Besides Palmeiras, Porto’s group rivals include Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Egypt’s Al Ahly. Notably, bookmakers have Porto pegged as the favorites to top the group.
Match facts
- Porto have won their last three official matches.
- Palmeiras have suffered two defeats in their last three outings.
- Palmeiras average 2.4 goals per game, while Porto average 2 goals per game.
Probable lineups
- Palmeiras: Weverton, Piquerez, Mikael, Bruno Fuchs, Gleison, Veiga, Martinez, Rios, Mauricio, Roque, Estevão.
- Porto: Costa, Fernandes, Pedro, Marcano, Moura, João Mário, Vieira, Veiga, Pepe, Mora, Samu.
H2H
The two teams have never faced each other before.
Prediction
Given the importance of the group opener and both teams’ desire to start with a win, we can expect an open contest with plenty of chances. The Brazilians will look to make a statement against strong European opposition, and their current match fitness could be a key advantage, as Porto haven’t played a competitive fixture in a month. Considering both sides’ attacking potential, tactical tendencies, and less-than-impenetrable defenses, the best value bet here is on over 2 goals.
