Here is the full reason why the highly anticipated FIFA Club World Cup match between Palmeiras and Al Ahly was suspended, and whether the decision is a permanent one or just a precautionary measure.
The FIFA Club World Cup match between Brazilian giants Palmeiras and Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, which took place on June 19, 2025, at the renowned MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, was abruptly suspended due to unexpected and severe weather conditions.
According to match officials and weather monitoring teams, a lightning storm was approaching the vicinity of the stadium during the second half of the game. Following international football safety protocols, the match was officially paused at approximately the 62nd minute to ensure the safety of everyone involved — including players, officials, fans, and media personnel.
At the time the game was suspended, Palmeiras was leading comfortably with a 2–0 scoreline. The Brazilian club had taken control of the game early on, with the first goal resulting from an unfortunate own goal by Al Ahly defender Wessam Abou Ali. Their second came from a clinical finish by Argentine striker Flaco López, who capitalized on a well-orchestrated team build-up.
The referee, Anthony Taylor from England, made the swift decision to halt the game after receiving urgent alerts from the stadium’s weather advisory system. Players were immediately escorted off the pitch and returned to their respective dressing rooms, where they were instructed to remain until further notice.
In line with emergency weather procedures, announcements were made over the public address system inside the stadium. These urged all fans, staff, commentators, and media teams to evacuate the open seating areas and seek shelter in the internal concourse zones of MetLife Stadium. Security personnel also assisted in guiding attendees safely away from open areas exposed to lightning risks.
This incident marks the second time this year that weather conditions have interfered with Club World Cup fixtures. Earlier delays were recorded during group stage matches held in Cincinnati and Orlando, both of which were also due to lightning strikes within the danger radius of the stadiums.
Organizers from FIFA and stadium officials have confirmed that the suspension of this particular fixture is strictly temporary. The match will resume once meteorological reports verify that the lightning has moved beyond a 10-kilometer radius — the mandatory safety buffer set by FIFA regulations for outdoor sporting events.
Until then, both Palmeiras and Al Ahly remain on standby in their respective locker rooms, awaiting an official green light to return to the pitch and continue the contest. The tournament committee has assured fans that they are doing everything possible to ensure safety while minimizing disruption to the schedule.
More updates on the resumption of the match will be provided as soon as weather conditions stabilize.