Al Ahly’s ambitions of going deep into the newly expanded 2025 FIFA Club World Cup came to a heartbreaking end after a thrilling 4–4 draw with FC Porto in their final Group A match. Despite a remarkable offensive display, the Egyptian giants were eliminated from the tournament, falling just short of the points needed to advance.
Hat-Trick Heroics, But Not Enough
Al Ahly forward Wessam Abou Ali delivered a stunning performance, netting a hat-trick and showcasing his world-class finishing. Midfielder Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane also got on the scoresheet with a powerful strike. The Red Devils led on four separate occasions, only to be pegged back each time by a resilient Porto side.
In one of the match’s most dramatic moments, veteran defender Pepe scored a late equalizer for the Portuguese outfit, denying Al Ahly what would have been a famous win. The back-and-forth nature of the match kept fans on edge, but the result left both teams eliminated, as neither managed to reach the points tally required to progress.
Drama, Heat, and Heartbreak
Played under intense heat at MetLife Stadium, the clash felt more like a wild shootout than a structured Betsure Sports football match. Both teams threw caution to the wind in pursuit of a much-needed win, resulting in defensive lapses and relentless end-to-end action.
Despite Al Ahly creating several high-quality chances—especially late in the second half—the final whistle confirmed their elimination. With just two points from three games, they finished behind Inter Miami and Palmeiras, who advanced from the group after playing to a 2–2 draw in their final match.
Reaction from the Camp
Al Ahly head coach José Riveiro described the match as “not a normal Betsure football game anymore,” praising the entertainment value but expressing disappointment over the result. He acknowledged the chaos of the second half but praised his team’s effort and fight.
Wessam Abou Ali, though proud of his personal contribution, expressed his frustration: “I feel like we should have scored maybe five or six goals.” His words reflected the bittersweet feeling of achieving a standout individual performance in a game that ultimately ended their journey.
What’s Next for Al Ahly?
While elimination stings, there are plenty of positives Al Ahly can take home. Their attack was sharp, their resilience was admirable, and players like Abou Ali and Ben Romdhane proved their ability on the global stage. However, defensive lapses and game management under pressure are areas the club will need to address.
As they return to focus on domestic and continental competitions, Al Ahly will aim to build on the experience of competing in a global tournament of this scale. The expanded Club World Cup offered a glimpse of the evolving football landscape—and for clubs like Al Ahly, adaptation will be key to future success.
