Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, is preparing for a high-stakes showdown against European powerhouse FC Porto in their second match of Group A at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The clash is set for Thursday, June 19, at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia—one of the tournament’s most anticipated fixtures.

Date, Time, and Venue in the U.S.

• Date: Thursday, June 19, 2025
• Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
• Kick-off Time: 3:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM PT

Inter Miami: Urgency After Opening Draw

Following a 0–0 draw against Al Ahly, Javier Mascherano’s side is under pressure to take all three points to stay in contention for a spot in the Round of 16. With Palmeiras and Al Ahly also in the group, the margin for error is razor-thin.

Messi and Co. Ready for the Challenge

Mascherano is expected to rely on his core group of veterans—including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba—backed by promising young talents like Tomás Avilés, Federico Redondo, and Benjamín Cremaschi.

Projected Starting XI (Inter Miami):

Ustari; Fray, Avilés, Falcón, Alba; Busquets, Redondo, Allende; Messi, Suárez, Segovia

FC Porto: Tactical and Tough

Porto also drew 0–0 in their first match, against Palmeiras, and now seek a win to solidify their path forward. With a disciplined backline and key names like Samu Aghehowa, Rodrigo Mora, and Fábio Vieira, the Portuguese club is known for its tactical precision and ability to grind out tight matches.

Key Match Factors

• Inter Miami must manage the physical toll from their intense opener.
• Messi remains the focal point—Porto will likely apply high pressing and tight marking to disrupt his rhythm.
• The winner will gain a major advantage in an extremely balanced group.

This match also holds special meaning for Messi. Back in 2003, he made his professional debut for FC Barcelona against Porto during the inauguration of the Estádio do Dragão. Over 20 years later, he now faces the Portuguese club again—this time as the face of American soccer.