Sabasports Match Preview
Club World Cup: Palmeiras vs Al Ahly
Kickoff Time: 2025-06-20 00:00 (HKT)
Source:REUTERS/VINCENT CARCHIETTA
As the 12-time champion of the Brazilian Serie A, Palmeiras drew 0-0 with FC Porto in the first group stage match. Judging from the opening game, Palmeiras’ offensive line remains dazzling and smooth. The team had a total of 17 shot attempts throughout the game, but unfortunately fell short on scoring a goal. Notably, Palmeiras’ prodigy Estevao Willian was very active in the game. In this match, Estevao started and played for 65 minutes, contributing a game-high three shots. In addition, he made 18 passes with 13 successful ones, had 30 touches, one tackle, and one successful ground duel. After the game, Estevao was awarded the title of man of the match. Estevao is capable of dribbling breakthroughs, creating opportunities for teammates, and delivering the final blow in counterattacks. There is no doubt that he is the absolute core of Palmeiras’ offensive line.
Al Ahly, the powerhouse of the Egyptian league, drew 0-0 with Inter Miami CF in their first group stage match. Al Ahly’s tactical approach focuses on high-pressure pressing, emphasizing ball control in offense, and excelling in launching counterattacks from the flanks. They utilize wing-play combinations to break through opponent defenses and possess certain set-piece capabilities. In defense, they rely on high-intensity pressure and coordinated defensive efforts to disrupt opponents’ organized attacks. Al Ahly’s star player is Tunisian international Ali Maaloul, who serves as the team’s leader and flagbearer. It is worth noting that Maaloul is also the club’s all-time leading scorer, having netted 51 goals so far. Additionally, he holds the record for the most assists in the club’s history, totaling 83 assists. In essence, Maaloul’s presence is akin to a stabilizing force within Al Ahly’s lineup.
Overall, Palmeiras clearly outmatches Al Ahly in terms of strength. Furthermore, Palmeiras’ strong attacking attributes are something Al Ahly finds hard to rival. Taking everything into account, the more powerful Palmeiras undoubtedly deserves higher regard.
Palmeiras’ Last 5 Games: DLWLW
25-06-16 Palmeiras 0-0 FC Porto
25-06-02 Cruzeiro 2-1 Palmeiras
25-05-29 Palmeiras 6-0 Sporting Cristal
25-05-26 Palmeiras 0-2 Flamengo
25-05-23 Palmeiras 3-0 Ceara
Al Ahly’s Last 5 Games: DDWWW
25-06-15 Al Ahly 0-0 Inter Miami CF
25-06-09 Al Ahly 1-1 Pachuca
25-05-29 Al Ahly 6-0 Pharco FC
25-05-18 Al Ahly 2-1 National Bank
25-05-13 Ceramica Cleopatra 0-1 Al Ahly
Head To Head Record:
22-02-09 Palmeiras 2-0 Al Ahly
21-02-11 Al Ahly 0-0 Palmeiras
Prediction: Palmeiras to win