Following strong performances in the Club World Cup so far, both Inter Miami and Palmeiras will advance to the round of 16 with just a draw. However, there`s a significant incentive for the winner of this group, as they will face the runner-up from Group B, potentially avoiding a match against Paris Saint-Germain if they win their group.
The article notes that the group winner could still face PSG in the next round, suggesting teams shouldn`t focus too much on future opponents. The main objective is to secure qualification and ensure all players are available and fit for the round of 16.
Match Details & Odds
- Location: Hard Rock Stadium — Miami, Florida
- Odds: Miami +450; Draw +137; Palmeiras +120
Previous Meeting
This upcoming match will be the first official encounter between these two teams.
Will Lionel Messi Play?
Leading up to the game, Lionel Messi did train with his teammates but had reported thigh discomfort after the previous match against Porto. As this is the third game in quick succession, manager Javier Mascherano might consider resting Messi unless absolutely necessary. However, given Palmeiras`s strong performance in the tournament, not playing Messi could make it easier for Miami to lose, increasing the risk of not qualifying for the round of 16.
Group A Qualification Scenarios
Palmeiras advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win or draw against Inter Miami
- A loss to Inter Miami AND Al Ahly wins against Porto OR Porto wins against Al Ahly AND Palmeiras has a better goal difference than Porto
Inter Miami advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win or draw against Palmeiras
- A loss to Palmeiras AND Porto wins against Al Ahly OR Inter Miami has a better goal difference than Al Ahly
Porto advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win against Al Ahly AND Palmeiras`s loss to Inter Miami AND Porto has a better goal difference than Palmeiras
Al Ahly advance to the round of 16 with:
- A win against Porto AND Inter Miami`s loss to Palmeiras AND Al Ahly has a better goal difference than Inter Miami
Player to Watch
Estêvão (Palmeiras): The winger, who is set to join Chelsea, has been one of the standout young players of the tournament. Earning player of the match honors in both previous games, he will play a crucial role in Palmeiras`s attack against Miami. If he can get in behind the defense, he could pose significant problems for the Herons. Despite being just 18, his current impact is already very impressive.
Prediction
With player fitness likely being a top priority, this match could start quickly but then settle into a slower tempo as both teams might settle for a draw to end the group stage.
Prediction: Inter Miami 1, Palmeiras 1
