In a crucial match, Palmeiras achieves a strategic 2-0 victory over Al-Ahly at MetLife Stadium.

New Jersey, USA – June 19, 2025

Match Summary

Victory with Efficiency and Pragmatism

The match, which began cautiously in the first half, gained intensity in the second half, culminating in Palmeiras' two decisive goals. The score was opened in the 49th minute with an unfortunate own goal by Egyptian defender Wessam Abou Ali after a dangerous free kick by Anibal Moreno. In the 59th minute, Flaco López extended the lead, finishing with precision after a quick counter-attack orchestrated by Maurício.

Despite having less possession (approximately 35-36% against Al-Ahly's 64-65%), Palmeiras demonstrated remarkable tactical efficiency and clinical finishing. Abel Ferreira's team prioritized vertical play and a solid defensive organization, maintaining their ninth clean sheet in the last twelve matches.

Match Statistics: Possession Control vs. Efficiency

The detailed match statistics reveal the nature of the encounter:

Al-Ahly, despite dominating possession and the volume of passes, failed to translate this superiority into clear goal-scoring opportunities, consistently failing to reach the final third. The match was also marked by a high number of fouls, indicating a physical game with many interruptions.

Performance Analysis and Impact of Substitutions

Coach Abel Ferreira showed his strategic insight with substitutions at halftime, introducing Maurício and Flaco López in place of Raphael Veiga and Vitor Roque. These changes invigorated the attack and were crucial for building the second goal. Palmeiras' ability to adapt and manage the game after the weather stoppage were key to maintaining their lead.

Al-Ahly, in turn, faced significant challenges. In addition to the own goal, the Egyptian team showed a lack of creativity in attack, and the absence of injured midfielder Emam Ashour was a notable factor that impacted team cohesion.

Individual Highlights: Moreno Shines, Flaco Decisive

Anibal Moreno (Palmeiras) was named "Man of the Match" by Flashscore. His free kick that resulted in the own goal and his strong defensive presence in midfield were fundamental to the victory and the clean sheet.

Flaco López (Palmeiras), after missing a chance early on, redeemed himself by scoring the second goal, showing his coolness and goal-scoring instinct.

Young Estêvão (Palmeiras), on his way to Chelsea, was a "spark" on the right wing, creating Palmeiras' first clear chance of the game.

The match also had a moment of controversy involving Raphael Veiga (Palmeiras), who initially received a red card but had the decision reversed to a yellow after VAR review. Experienced goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy (Al-Ahly) made important saves but was helpless on Palmeiras' second goal.

Weather Interruption and Media Coverage

At 62 minutes, the match was suspended due to a lightning alert, resulting in a stoppage of approximately 45 to 48 minutes. This was the third match of the tournament to be affected by adverse weather conditions, raising questions about FIFA's logistical planning. The interruption, which occurred after Palmeiras had already established their lead, likely broke any momentum Al-Ahly had to react.

The national and international press dedicated extensive coverage to the match. In Brazil, outlets such as Globo Esporte, UOL Esporte, and Lance! highlighted Abel Ferreira's press conference and the VAR analysis. Internationally, Flashscore, beIN SPORTS, ESPN, and The Guardian emphasized the importance of the result for Group A and the weather interruption.

Next Challenges

With the victory, Palmeiras prepares to face Inter Miami CF on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 01:00 AM UTC, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Al-Ahly will seek recovery against FC Porto on the same Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 01:00 AM UTC, at MetLife Stadium.

Palmeiras' victory solidifies their position in Group A and puts them on a promising path for the knockout stages of the tournament, while Al-Ahly faces an arduous task to advance in the competition.