FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Tactical Breakdown of Palmeiras vs Al Ahly & Inter Miami vs Porto

The Data Analyst’s View: Club World Cup Quarterfinals Preview

Palmeiras vs Al Ahly: Midfield Maestros Meet Defensive Wall

Having crunched the numbers, Palmeiras’ 3-4-2-1 system shows impressive midfield dominance (82.89% pass accuracy) that should worry any opponent. Their Brazilian flair is backed by solid stats: 1.8 goals/game from 16.4 shots with 35.52% on target. Goalkeeper Weverton provides stability, while midfielders Joaquín Piquerez and Aníbal Ismael maintain remarkable consistency.

But don’t write off Al Ahly just yet. Their 4-3-1-2 formation produces a staggering 20.33 clearances/game away from home - proof of their defensive organization. Keeper Mohamed El Shenawy anchors a backline where Ahmed Kouka shines, though their 71.39% pass accuracy suggests vulnerability under high press.

Key Battle: Can Palmeiras’ creative midfield (55.3% possession) break through Al Ahly’s defensive bunker?

Inter Miami vs Porto: Experience vs Youth

At 37, Lionel Messi still drives Inter Miami’s attack (2.4 goals/game), but their 4-4-2 shows signs of age. Watch their 51.22% dribble success rate - impressive but potentially exploitable by Porto’s energetic 3-4-2-1 setup featuring teen defender Martín Fernández.

Porto’s European discipline shows in their defensive numbers: 11.17 tackles and 21.67 clearances/game. However, their away form raises concerns - just 1.3 goals/game with only 50.06% pass accuracy suggests they might struggle to build attacks.

X-Factor: Porto’s three consecutive clean sheets versus Miami’s home advantage (55.3% possession). This could be decided by one moment of Messi magic or a defensive lapse.

Final Thoughts: While data favors Palmeiras’ control and Miami’s firepower, football isn’t played on spreadsheets. Al Ahly’s defensive resolve and Porto’s young guns could spring surprises. As always in knockout football, expect the unexpected - but maybe hedge your bets based on these stats!