Real Madrid vs Al-Ahly: Predictions, tips & betting odds

Real Madrid begin their quest to be crowned Club World Cup champions on Wednesday evening when they face Egyptian side Al Ahly.

Los Blancos are missing some key members of their squad for their trip to Morocco with Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militao, Karim Benzema, Eden Hazard and Ferland Mendy all out injured.

This will be Madrid's first game in the tournament while Al-Ahly have had to overcome Auckland City and Seattle Sounders to reach the semi-finals.

Real Madrid vs Al-Ahly latest odds

The champions of Africa are clear outsiders to win in 90 minutes with bet365 offering them at 9/1 (10.00) while Madrid can be backed at 3/10 (1.30).

In an already taxing schedule, Los Blancos will be desperate to avoid extra time and the draw is priced at 17/4 (5.25).

Real Madrid vs Al-Ahly first goal scorer odds

With Karim Benzema missing, Rodrygo Goes is likely to lead the line for Los Blancos and the young Brazilian is offered at 5/1 (6.00) to break the deadlock, just ahead of his compatriot Vinicius Junior at 11/2 (6.50).

Marco Asensio is priced at 7/1 (8.00) while the man who scored the only goal of the game for Al-Ahly against Seattle, Mohamed Magdy Afsha is priced at 20/1 (21.00).

Real Madrid vs Al-Ahly preview

With Los Blancos missing their first-choice goalkeeper, best defender and top goal scorer, Al-Ahly will feel they have a better chance of competing.

Los Blancos have not been firing on all cylinders domestically recently, losing 1-0 to Mallorca at the weekend, while dropping points to Real Sociedad at home in a 0-0 draw a couple of weeks ago.

This game is more of an inconvenience for the European champions while for their African counterparts it is one of their biggest matches in recent memory and there should be plenty of interest in backing the Egyptian outfit to make things tough for Madrid.

Real Madrid vs Al-Ahly tips and predictions

Al-Ahly are offered at 7/10 (1.70) to win with a +1.75 Asian handicap which looks of interest. This bet pays out in full if the side from north Africa win, draw or lose by one goal, while half the initial stake is refunded if they lose by two goals or more.

Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.