Argentine superstar Lionel Messi will take center stage at the launch of the new 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, which will begin at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami with a highly anticipated clash between Inter Miami and Egyptian giants Al-Ahly. This match will mark the beginning of 63 games that will determine the tournament champion on July 13 in New Jersey.

How does Lionel Messi arrive at the Club World Cup with Inter Miami?

Inter Miami earned their place in the tournament by winning the Supporters' Shield as the best team of the 2024 MLS regular season. Led by Messi, the team finds itself in a competitive group along with Palmeiras from Brazil and Porto from Portugal.

Messi arrives in top form: in his last three matches with Inter Miami, he scored five goals and provided three assists. He was named MLS Player of the Month, and so far this season, he has 10 goals and 6 assists in 13 games. This comes after being crowned MVP of the 2024 MLS season, finishing with 21 goals and 18 assists.

Javier Mascherano's team bounces back with goals

With a star-studded squad including Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami has shaken off a rough patch. Recent wins against Montreal (4-2) and Columbus Crew (5-1) have revitalized the squad after their elimination in the CONCACAF Champions League semifinals.

Luis Suárez, after a slow start to the season, has found his rhythm with three goals in his last two games.

“This international competition will help us grow as a league. It’s a positive step, regardless of the results,” said Alfonso Mondelo, MLS sporting director, in an interview with EFE.

Al-Ahly, the Egyptian powerhouse looking to surprise

On the other side, Al-Ahly arrives as three-time CAF Champions League winners (2021, 2023, and 2024), boasting an impressive record of 45 league titles, 39 national cups, and 12 continental trophies.

The team is now coached by Spaniard José Riveiro, who took over after Marcel Koller’s departure. Riveiro, who previously won five titles with Orlando Pirates in South Africa, is now looking to make his mark in both African and global football.