June 24, 2025 – New Jersey, USA
Al Ahly SC and FC Porto delivered one of the most thrilling matches of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, playing out a dramatic 4–4 draw in their final Group A fixture. However, the result was not enough to save either team from elimination.
The match, played at MetLife Stadium, was a pulsating end-to-end battle packed with goals, comebacks, and standout performances, especially from Al Ahly striker Wessam Abou Ali, who scored a memorable hat-trick.
First Half Action
Al Ahly struck first, with Abou Ali putting the Egyptian giants ahead and later converting a penalty to make it 2–1 by halftime. Porto responded through Rodrigo Mora, who gave the Portuguese side a lifeline going into the second half.
Second Half Drama
The second half saw five more goals in a frantic exchange:
- William Gomes leveled for Porto shortly after the break.
- Abou Ali then completed his hat-trick to restore Al Ahly’s lead.
- Samu Aghehowa equalized again for Porto.
- Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane put Al Ahly ahead for a third time in the 78th minute.
- Finally, in the 89th minute, veteran defender Pepe found the back of the net to seal the final score at 4–4.
Despite their spirited performance, both teams were eliminated as Inter Miami and Palmeiras secured the top two spots in Group A following their 2–2 draw earlier in the day.
Final Group A Standings
- Palmeiras – 5 points (Goal Difference: +2)
- Inter Miami – 5 points (Goal Difference: +1)
- Porto – 2 points
- Al Ahly – 2 points
Coach Reactions
Al Ahly coach José Riveiro said:
“We gave everything today. It was a beautiful game for the fans, but not the result we wanted.”
Porto manager Martín Anselmi added:
“We fought until the last minute. We scored four goals, but qualification slipped through our hands. It’s tough to accept.”
While both teams exit the tournament, their match will be remembered as one of the most entertaining clashes of this year’s Club World Cup.
