AFC Champions League winners Al Ain make their return to the Club World Cup (CWC) for the first time since 2018, facing European giants Juventus in a Group G encounter that could shape the early complexion of the tournament. Though Manchester City loom large in this group, both sides will view this fixture as a crucial step towards progressing on the global stage.
Al Ain Aim to Rekindle 2018 Magic
Al Ain arrive in the competition with pedigree and pride. The most successful club in UAE football history, boasting 14 domestic league titles, they remain the only Emirati team to have lifted the AFC Champions League on two occasions first in 2003, and again in 2024. That continental triumph booked their ticket to the CWC, where they previously dazzled by reaching the final in 2018 before falling 4-1 to Real Madrid.
While few expect them to trouble the European heavyweights in the group, Al Ain’s form is quietly impressive. The UAE champions are unbeaten in seven matches (W4, D3), with six clean sheets in that run, showcasing both resilience and defensive discipline.
Juventus Step Into the Unknown
Incredibly, this will be Juventus’ first-ever appearance at the Club World Cup, a consequence of their prolonged absence from continental glory. Their qualification came via UEFA’s four-year ranking system after a 26-year drought without a major European title. The Italian giants endured a mixed campaign, finishing 20th in the UEFA Champions League rankings and securing a top-four Serie A spot by the skin of their teeth.
Igor Tudor’s retention as head coach raised eyebrows, especially after an inconsistent run to end the season seven wins from 14 games (D3, L4) yet the Croatian tactician now has the chance to lead Juve into uncharted territory.
Head-to-Head and Historical Note
This clash marks the first competitive meeting between an Italian and Emirati side at the CWC. While their paths haven’t crossed in official competition, Al Ain famously bested a star-studded Juventus in a 2003 mid-season friendly a match now more symbolic than instructive.
Stat Pack and Tactical Trends
- Al Ain were only beaten without scoring in two of their 26 UAE Pro League matches this season.
- Eleven of their last 13 AFC Champions League games saw both teams score a testament to their open, attacking approach.
- Juventus have struggled for defensive solidity, recording just three clean sheets in their last 11 outings.
- Four of Juve’s last five matches ended with exactly two goals, hinting at a conservative attacking output.
Players to Watch
Kodjo Laba is the clear danger man for Al Ain. The Togo international has a staggering 145 goals in 145 matches for the club and will need no extra motivation on a stage like this. For Juventus, Dušan Vlahović leads the line after contributing 20 goals across all competitions (G15, A5). Notably, five of his last seven strikes came after half-time something to watch in the latter stages of the game.
Team news favours Al Ain, who report a clean bill of health. Juventus, however, are without Juan Cabal, Mattia Perin, and Fabio Miretti, though midfield anchor Manuel Locatelli is expected to return from injury.
Betting Insight
While Juventus are clear favourites on paper, their erratic form and poor recent clean sheet record make a straightforward victory less certain. Al Ain’s strong scoring run and solid form suggest that a Juventus win with both teams scoring could offer the best value.
Prediction: Juventus 2-1 Al Ain
