Palmeiras and FC Porto go head-to-head this Sunday in New Jersey as both sides begin their campaigns in Group A of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup™. The clash sees Brazilian and Portuguese giants battle for early control in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive groups in the tournament.
While Palmeiras bring pedigree and recent success from South America, Porto arrive with something to prove after a mixed domestic campaign.
Match Overview
Kickoff is set for 8:00 PM ET at MetLife Stadium. Both teams enter the match with high expectations but differing levels of form and momentum.
Palmeiras, Copa Libertadores winners in 2021 and runners-up in the 2024 Brazilian Serie A, are entering their third Club World Cup appearance. They were narrowly beaten by Chelsea in the 2022 final and are now aiming to go one better.
Porto, meanwhile, are making their debut in the FIFA edition of this tournament after qualifying via UEFA’s four-year ranking system. Despite lifting two Intercontinental Cups in previous decades, their recent domestic form has been underwhelming, with consecutive third-place finishes in Portugal.
Team News
Palmeiras head coach Abel Ferreira has a nearly full-strength squad at his disposal. Rising star Estevão Willian—soon to join Chelsea—leads a talented group that includes club captain Gustavo Gómez, Serie A assist leader Joaquin Piquerez, and former Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Attacking depth is a key strength for Palmeiras, with Facundo Torres, Felipe Anderson, Mauricio, and Raphael Veiga competing to support striker José Manuel López. Paulinho is expected to miss out due to an ongoing shin issue.
Porto will turn to teenage striker Rodrigo Mora and experienced full-back Francisco Moura, who combined for 17 goals and assists in the Primeira Liga last season. Gabri Veiga is expected to feature after returning from Saudi Arabia, while Tiago Djaló remains unavailable for disciplinary reasons. Midfielder Marko Grujić is also sidelined.
Spanish forward Samu Aghehowa, who averaged a goal every 119 minutes last season, will likely spearhead the Dragons’ attack.
Tactical Review
Palmeiras play a compact, aggressive style without the ball, quickly transitioning into attack through their dynamic wide players. Ferreira’s side is defensively disciplined, often building from the back through Gómez and Murilo.
Porto under Martín Anselmi are in transition, with a youthful lineup built around fluidity in midfield. They are likely to cede possession and look for moments on the counter through Mora and Veiga. While their structure is improving, defensive vulnerabilities remain against top-tier opposition.
Palmeiras’ directness and pressing game could pose serious problems for a Porto side still searching for cohesion.
How to Watch
The match will be streamed live and free worldwide via DAZN.com. Fans around the world can follow every minute of the Club World Cup action online.
Predictions
Softfootball Prediction: Palmeiras 2-1 FC Porto
Backed by a strong domestic campaign and tournament experience, Palmeiras are expected to edge this contest. Porto may keep things competitive, but Palmeiras’ organized press and front-line quality give them the advantage to secure three crucial points.