Following strong performances in the Club World Cup so far, both Inter Miami and Palmeiras can secure qualification for the round of 16 with a draw. However, finishing first in the group means potentially avoiding the winner of Group B in the next round (possibly Paris Saint-Germain), providing a strong motive to seek a win in this clash.
While the group winner might still face tough opposition, teams should focus on securing qualification and ensuring player fitness rather than overthinking potential future matchups. The primary goal for both sides is to advance with their squads intact.
Here is a preview of the match details:
Match Details
- Date: Monday, June 23
- Time: 9 p.m. ET
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium — Miami, Florida
- TV: TBS
- Live stream: Available via streaming
- Odds: Miami +450; Draw +137; Palmeiras +120
First Meeting
This marks the first official encounter between Inter Miami and Palmeiras.
Will Lionel Messi Play?
Ahead of the match, Lionel Messi trained with his teammates but experienced thigh discomfort in the previous Porto clash. Given the quick succession of games, manager Javier Mascherano might consider resting Messi unless absolutely necessary. However, Palmeiras` strong form in the tournament makes the decision risky for Miami`s qualification chances.
Group A Qualification Scenarios
Palmeiras advance to the round of 16 with:
- Win or draw against Inter Miami
- Loss to Inter Miami AND Al Ahly win over Porto OR Porto win over Al Ahly AND Palmeiras beat Porto on goal difference
Inter Miami advance to the round of 16 with:
- Win or draw against Palmeiras
- Loss to Palmeiras AND Porto win over Al Ahly OR Inter Miami beat Al Ahly on goal difference
Porto advance to the round of 16 with:
- Win against Al Ahly AND Palmeiras` loss to Inter Miami AND Porto beat Palmeiras on goal difference
Al Ahly advance to the round of 16 with:
- Win against Porto AND Inter Miami loss to Palmeiras AND Al Ahly beat Inter Miami on goal difference
Player to Watch
Estevão, Palmeiras: The young winger, set to join Chelsea, has been one of the standout breakout players of the tournament. He has earned player of the match honors in both previous games. His ability to exploit defensive gaps will be crucial for Palmeiras against Miami. Despite being only 18, his significant impact is highly impressive.
Prediction
Considering player health is a top priority, this match might start lively but could settle into a slower pace, potentially leading to a draw that secures qualification for both teams.
Pick: Inter Miami 1, Palmeiras 1
