Why the Palmeiras vs Al Ahly Club World Cup Match Was Suspended — And What Happens Next
The Club World Cup clash between Palmeiras and Al Ahly, held at MetLife Stadium, was abruptly suspended on June 19, 2025, due to severe weather conditions, specifically a lightning storm approaching the area.
The game was halted in the 62nd minute, with Palmeiras leading 2–0, following an own goal by Wessam Abou Ali and a clinical strike by Flaco López. The decision to pause the match was made in line with established safety protocols once lightning was detected within close range of the stadium.
Referee Anthony Taylor acted swiftly, instructing both teams to leave the field after receiving weather alerts from match officials. Stadium authorities immediately issued public safety notices, urging fans, staff, media, and commentators to evacuate the seating areas and seek shelter inside the stadium concourses.
This marks the second lightning-related disruption of a Club World Cup fixture in 2025, following previous delays in Cincinnati and Orlando earlier in the tournament.
Is the Suspension Permanent?
No. Organizers have confirmed that the suspension is temporary, and the match will resume once weather authorities determine that lightning activity has moved at least 10 kilometers away, which is the established safety threshold under international match guidelines.
As of now, both Palmeiras and Al Ahly players and coaching staff remain in their respective dressing rooms, awaiting clearance to return to the pitch. A revised kick-off time for resumption will be announced once it is safe to proceed.
Fans can rest assured: the match is not cancelled, and the final outcome will be decided once play resumes.