Al-Ittihad Gears Up for FIFA Club World Cup Showdown with Stellar Squad
The powerhouse Al-Ittihad will be Auckland City’s first FIFA Club World Cup challenger, with an extraordinary lineup set to make waves in Saudi Arabia. Head coach Marcelo Gallardo has assembled an unrivalled squad that includes football legends such as Karim Benzema, Luiz Felipe, N’Golo Kante, Fabinho, and Jota.
This imposing lineup, which rivals the best ever assembled outside of Europe or South America, sets the stage for an enthralling match when Al-Ittihad takes on Auckland City on December 12 at 18:00 (GMT). The winner advances to the second round, where they will face Egypt’s Al Ahly, the reigning African champions.
Midfield maestro N’Golo Kante and Brazilian powerhouse Fabinho are among the standout names. Jota, who sealed the top spot for Al-Ittihad in AFC Champions League’s Group C, should be available for the match. However, former French national player Karim Benzema, a UEFA Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or winner, may miss out on the match due to injury.
The tournament, hosting seven contenders, promises high-octane action, with Al-Ittihad’s head coach, Gallardo, a former Argentina international, steering his side toward glory in this riveting competition. As anticipation builds, football enthusiasts can expect a clash of titans and a global talent showcase at the FIFA Club World Cup.
