A crucial match is set for Monday at MetLife Stadium as Porto faces off against Al Ahly, both aiming to secure a place in the round of 16 of the Club World Cup. As the only two teams in Group A yet to win, each squad finds itself in a challenging position, trailing behind Palmeiras and Inter Miami, who are the frontrunners to advance when they face off simultaneously at Hard Rock Stadium.
This game represents a do-or-die scenario for both clubs; victory is essential, but they also require favorable results from the Miami game to reach the knockout stage.
Complications have arisen for both squads during this tournament, notably for Al Ahly, who have yet to capture a win. They have tried to make adjustments, bringing in new players and management under Jose Riviero. They showcased potential moments against Miami, where their 0-0 draw and a 2-0 loss to Palmeiras showcased missed opportunities to capitalize.
Porto’s performance has also come under scrutiny. Despite a series of advantages typical for European clubs in tournaments, they suffered a surprising loss to Miami after a disappointing draw against Palmeiras. Their inconsistent performances leave them eager for a strong showing in this decisive match.
Here’s what you need to know before tuning in:
How to watch Porto vs. Al Ahly
- Date: Monday, June 23
- Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Location: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
- Live stream: Watch on DAZN (Try for free)
- Odds: Porto -130; Draw +280; Al Ahly +320
Group A scenarios
Porto advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win against Al Ahly AND Palmeiras losing to Inter Miami AND Porto making up goal difference deficit.
Al Ahly advance with:
- A win over Porto AND Inter Miami losing to Palmeiras AND Al Ahly making up goal differential deficit.
Predicted Lineups
Porto
- Claudio Ramos, Martin Fernandes, Jose Pedro, Ivan Marcano, Joao Mario, Alan Varela, Francisco Moura, Gabri Veiga, Rodrigo Mora, Samu Aghehowa
Al Ahly
- Mohamed El Shenawy, Mohamed Hany, Achraf Dari, Yasser Ibrahim, Yahya Attiyat Allah, Hamdy Fathy, Marwan Attia, Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane, Ahmed Sayed, Wessam Abou Ali, Trezeguet
Player to watch
Samu Aghehowa, Porto: At just 21, Aghehowa has made an immediate impact in his first season with Porto, netting 26 goals in 44 matches, including Porto’s single goal in this Club World Cup. His performance could be crucial for Porto ahead of this vital clash, providing a showcase for his emerging talent.
Storyline to watch
All or nothing for Porto: The usual dominance of European and South American clubs in this tournament has been evident, but Porto has struggled, putting them in a critical position. Manager Martin Anselmi stated, “We have hurt pride. It’s not the image that we want to show in the Club World Cup and tomorrow, we have the chance to revert that image.”
Expect both teams to strive for an emphatic showing as they battle for advancement with substantial implications for their ongoing journeys.
Prediction
The matchup seems poised for a stalemate as both teams grapple with missed chances, leading to a final score prediction of: Porto 1, Al Ahly 1.
