Thu Jun 19 16:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:
**Palmeiras Weather the Storm, Defeat Al Ahly 2-0 Amid Club World Cup Delay**
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – Palmeiras secured a 2-0 victory over Al Ahly in a dramatic FIFA Club World Cup match at MetLife Stadium today, a game punctuated by a lengthy weather delay. Play was suspended for approximately 40 minutes in the second half due to a severe lightning storm that swept through the area.
The match, which kicked off in sweltering 31C (88F) heat, saw players struggling with the conditions, prompting an earlier cooling break. However, it was the threat of lightning that ultimately forced referee Anthony Taylor to halt the game in the 62nd minute, instructing players and fans to seek shelter.
Upon resumption, Palmeiras capitalized on the disrupted flow. Just after the half-time break, Al Ahly’s Achraf Dari inadvertently headed a free-kick into his own net, breaking the deadlock. Ten minutes later, substitute Jose Lopez doubled the Brazilian club’s advantage on a counter-attack, showcasing strength and composure to seal the win.
Earlier in the game, Palmeiras had VAR to thank after Raphael Veiga’s straight red card for a challenge on Zizo was overturned upon review, downgraded to a yellow.
“Contact is low on the foot and he [Veiga] does not leave the floor two-footed,” referee Taylor explained over the pitchside microphone.
The unusual midday kickoff in New Jersey brought challenges for both sides. Despite the heat and humidity earlier in the game, the weather system moved in unexpectedly, resulting in the extended break. The stoppage raised concerns about player safety, as a sudden cool-down can increase the risk of injury.
The win puts Palmeiras in a favorable position to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament, with four points from their first two games. They will face Inter Miami in Florida on Tuesday, while Al Ahly will remain in New Jersey to play Porto.
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