The first meeting between Europeans and South Americans at the Club World Cup didn't have the outcome many had hoped for. Despite a goalless draw at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Palmeiras had far more chances to score and came out on top against Porto, who failed to have many real chances to score during the 90 minutes.
Martín Anselmi's team tried to take advantage of João Mário's individuality in the first few minutes, but Palmeiras soon responded with a lot of intensity in their high pressing, being extremely effective in stealing the ball from their opponents. Estêvão, the youngster sold to Chelsea, was dangerous throughout the match.
Gradually, the Brazilians managed to control the midfield and dictated the tempo of the first half, but Porto still took advantage of the spaces given up on the right and created some good chances with a lot of skill from Rodrigo Mora, the young talent who is attracting positive attention in Europe.
Porto also tried to threaten from set pieces after overcoming the scares and picked up the pace again to get close to goal, but reserve goalkeeper Claudio Ramos made two great saves to prevent the Portuguese side from conceding before the break. After the break, there was a drop in intensity for long minutes from both teams, until Palmeiras made three changes and owned the game from the 70th minute onwards.
The players Flaco López, Paulinho and Raphael Veiga came on very well and were essential in forcing Porto to give up trying to be intense and bet on the 5-4-1 tactical system to avoid defeat. As a result, Palmeiras posed more of a threat with crosses from the flanks into the penalty area, looking to set things up, but Porto did their job and left the MetLife Stadium with a draw.
O que esperar do Inter Miami contra o Porto?
Considering that Javier Mascherano's defensive system continues to be a negative point in the MLS season, Inter Miami will need to be very attentive to Rodrigo Mora's ability and especially to protecting the sides of the pitch with an efficient range to prevent Porto from being able to leverage their players.