Round 2 of the group stage kicks off with everything to play for in Groups A and D. All four sides in Group A are level after goalless draws, while Group D is already shaping up to be a two-horse race. Here’s what to expect from the upcoming clashes.
SE Palmeiras SP vs Al Ahly SC [EGY]
Group A
19 June, 18:00 SAST
Palmeiras come into this clash after a goalless draw with FC Porto. The Brazilian side had moments of control but struggled to convert possession into clear chances. A win here would put them in pole position in a tight group.
Al Ahly also recorded a 0-0 draw in their opener, against Inter Miami. Their backline held firm, but they’ll need more going forward if they hope to progress. With all four teams tied on one point, this game is crucial.
Betting – click here to bet
Palmeiras – 1.62
Draw – 4.00
Al Ahly – 6.00
This should be a cagey affair with both teams nervous to be the 1st to conceded. I am betting on 2 goals or less in the game.
BET: Under 2.5 goals at 1.80
Inter Miami CF vs FC Porto
Group A
19 June, 21:00 SAST
Inter Miami were held to an entertaining 0-0 draw by Al Ahly in Round 1. Despite the star presence of Messi, they couldn’t break the deadlock and showed some early tournament rust. They’ll need to be sharper to compete against the Portuguese side.
FC Porto played out a 0-0 draw with Palmeiras and looked composed defensively. They’ll be aiming to turn that control into goals, knowing that three points here would set them up perfectly for the final round.
Betting – click here to bet
Inter Miami – 5.00
Draw – 4.20
FC Porto – 1.65
Inter Miami showed me enough in the 1st round of matches to suggest they can pull off an upset win here.
BET: Inter Miami win at 5.00
Seattle Sounders vs Atlético de Madrid
Group D
20 June, 00:00 SAST
Seattle Sounders suffered a 2-1 defeat to Botafogo in their first match. They showed some late fight but were largely outplayed and now face an even tougher task against the Spanish heavyweights.
Atlético Madrid had a nightmare start, losing 4-0 to PSG. Their defence, usually so reliable, was completely dismantled. They must bounce back immediately, or they’ll be on the brink of elimination.
Betting – click here to bet
Seattle Sounders – 10.00
Draw – 6.00
Atlético Madrid – 1.30
Seattle are rightly underdogs but I think they can trouble Atletico and I am betting that both teams score.
BET: Both teams to score YES at 2.05
Paris Saint-Germain vs Botafogo FR RJ
Group D
20 June, 03:00 SAST
PSG made a huge statement with a 4-0 thrashing of Atlético Madrid. 4 different players found the net and the French champions were dominant from start to finish. Another win here will book their place in the knockouts.
Botafogo edged Seattle Sounders 2-1 in their opener. They were solid going forward but now face the ultimate test in PSG. Even a draw would be a valuable result as they look to secure qualification.
Betting – click here to bet
Paris Saint-Germain – 1.20
Draw – 7.50
Botafogo – 14.00
PSG should have too much class but I expect Botafogo to fight hard. A 2 goal win for the favourites is my bet here.
BET: Handicap, PSG -2 goals the draw at 4.00
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