Zaidu Sanusi benched as Porto and Palmeiras share spoils in their Club World Cup opener
Nigerian defender Zaidu Sanusi was an unused substitute as his Portuguese side FC Porto played a goalless draw with Brazil’s Palmeiras in their opening game of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup tournament.
One of five Nigerian players in this tournament, Zaidu Sanusi watched from the stands as both teams cancelled each other.
The highly anticipated match between Palmeiras and Porto ended in a 0-0 stalemate, reflecting the fierce competition in a group featuring Lionel Messi. Both clubs entered the game boasting impressive squad values Porto’s roster estimated at 374 million dollars and Palmeiras’ at 273 million making this clash a true battle of football giants.
Palmeiras started confidently, pressing aggressively from the first whistle. Their young stars, Vitor Roque and Estêvão already signed by Chelsea consistently threatened Porto’s defense with sharp runs and creative play. Head coach Abel Ferreira clearly emphasized high intensity and quick transitions in his tactical approach.
Porto relied on flashes of brilliance from debutant Gabri Veiga, alongside Fábio Vieira and Rodrigo Mora, but lacked a consistent strategy and struggled to build from the back. Despite the frequent back-and-forth action, it was Palmeiras’ goalkeeper Weverton who stood out in the first half, making several crucial saves, including a spectacular double stop near halftime. Porto’s keeper Cláudio Ramos was equally alert, denying a clear chance from Estêvão after a well-crafted team move.
As the match progressed, fatigue became apparent, yet Palmeiras maintained control. While Porto managed a few promising attacks with Mora emerging as their most effective threat. Palmeiras came closest to breaking the deadlock. Substitutes such as ‘Flaco’ López had a powerful header saved, and Murilo struck the post late in the match, reinforcing the sense that Palmeiras deserved more from the contest.
With this draw, all teams in Group A now sit on one point after the opening round. Given their squad strength, playing style, and ambition, Palmeiras and Porto appear to be front-runners for the knockout stage, but the competition remains wide open. Any slip-up could prove costly.
The group’s intensity shows no signs of easing. Palmeiras will next face Al Ahly, while Porto’s opponent has yet to be confirmed. With Messi in the mix and two powerful clubs in contention, the outcome of this group promises plenty of drama and excitement.
