Copa Libertadores titleholders Palmeiras take on CAF Champions League winners Al Ahly in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday in the first of two FIFA Club World Cup semifinals. Although the Brazilians are only entering at this stage, the Egyptians have seen off CF Monterrey to get this far thanks to a goal from Mohamed Hany eight minutes into the second half at the same Al Nahyan Stadium venue.
Here is how you can watch the match and what to know.
Viewing information
Date: Tuesday, Feb. 8 | Time: 11:30 a.m. ET
Location: Al Nahyan Stadium — Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
TV: FS2
Live stream: FuboTV (try for free)
Odds: Palmeiras -225; Draw +300; Al Ahly +650 (via Caesars Sportsbook)
Team news
Palmeiras: Young defender Henri is the only injury worry for Abel Ferreira with a relatively full squad to choose from otherwise. Danilo and Patrick de Paula are two who are likely to watched by several scouts monitoring the tournament.
Al Ahly: Pitso Mosimane had Mohamed El Maghraby went off injured during the Monterrey win to stretch options with Ali Lotfi and Mohamed El Shenawy key at the back. Karim Fouad could be utilized as an emergency defensive option while the Egyptians remain without several internationals due to the Egypt’s recent run to the Africa Cup of Nations final. Percy Tau is also expected to miss out through injury.
Storylines
Palmeiras: The Brazilians are not domestic champions, but they did compete in the 2020 Club World Cup and lost to Tigres UANL of Mexico. Monterrey were disposed of by Al Ahly and this is a great chance for the South Americans to secure another crack at the title.
Al Ahly: The Egyptians were also here last edition before losing to Bayern Munich and then beating Palmeiras in the third-place game which makes this something of a rematch which Verdao will be keen to win.
Prediction
The Brazilians will likely capitalize on the Egyptians’ absentees. However, Mosimane’s men have already proved that they can get the better of Ferreira’s side which should add some competitive kick to this one.
Pick: Palmeiras 2, Al Ahly 1
