Friday , February 7 2025

Al Ittihad Vs. Auckland City 2023 FIFA Club World Cup Preview

The 2023 FIFA Club World Cup begins with Al Ittihad facing off against Auckland City at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in a quest for a spot in the second round.

This inaugural fixture of the tournament sees the star-studded Saudi Arabian side taking on the New Zealand-based team, aiming to emulate their 2014 success in Jeddah.

Match Preview

Marcelo Gallardo, just a month into managing Al Ittihad, endeavors to steer the Tigers to a respectable standing in this year’s Club World Cup.

The Saudi Pro League winners boast talents like Karim Benzema, who returns from injury, bolstering their chances in this tournament.

Accompanying the Frenchman are N’Golo Kante and Fabinho, midfield stalwarts with prior tournament success, adding depth and expertise to Al Ittihad’s squad.

Despite the quality at their disposal, the pressure is on Gallardo to deliver results and secure a victory over Auckland City to maintain fan support.

On the other side, Auckland City, aiming to replicate their 2014 feat, faces a tough challenge. Albert Riera’s squad, after a period of rest, looks to rebound after three consecutive defeats in recent matches.

Scoring goals becomes crucial for Auckland City, particularly after a recent goalless outing, as they aim to stun their opposition. Facing Al Ittihad’s formidable lineup demands a fearless approach.

Form Guide

Al Ittihad (all competitions): W-D-W-W-W-L

Auckland City (all competitions): W-W-W-L-L-L

Team News

Al Ittihad will miss Luiz Felipe due to injury, but the return of Benzema and Romarinho could bolster their attacking lineup. Gallardo might field a strong XI aiming for progression.

Auckland City has a full squad at their disposal and might opt for a 4-5-1 formation, relying on players like Cameron Howieson and Dylan Manickum for a match-winning edge.

Possible Lineups

Al Ittihad: (4-2-3-1)

Grohe;

Alshanqiti, Hawsawi, Hegazy, Bamsaud;

Kante, Fabinho;

Alamri, Coronado, Jota;

Benzema

Auckland City:(4-5-1)

Tracey;

Vale, Mitchell, Lee, Lobo;

Garriga, D. Heijer, Howieson, Ilich, Manickum;

Kilkolly

Prediction: Al Ittihad 2-1 Auckland City

While Auckland City aims for a resurgence, Al Ittihad’s home advantage and the return of Benzema might give the Tigers the edge, securing their progression to the next round.

El deporte es una actividad física que se practica de manera regular y organizada, con el objetivo de mejorar la condición física, competir o simplemente disfrutar de una actividad recreativa. Puede incluir una amplia variedad de disciplinas, desde deportes de equipo como el fútbol y el baloncesto hasta deportes individuales como la natación y el tenis. El deporte no solo promueve la salud y el bienestar, sino que también fomenta la camaradería, la competencia leal y el espíritu de equipo. Además, es una forma divertida de mantenerse activo y socializar con otras personas.

Source_by_sportsweez.com

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