Can Messi's Inter Miami defy the odds in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup showdown? | OneFootball

A new chapter will be written in soccer history with the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. With an expanded format featuring 32 teams, this promises to be a tournament that will be global in scope, bringing together the best clubs from across continents. Right at the heart of this revolution stands Inter Miami, a young club that's already making waves.

Drawn into Group A alongside Palmeiras, FC Porto, and Al Ahly, Inter Miami carries the load of American soccer and being a host team. Led by Lionel Messi, the club rises as one of the most compelling stories to see.

The road so far

Inter Miami’s entry into this international competition wasn’t a fluke. The club secured its spot by winning the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, establishing itself as the best team during the regular season. With a record-breaking campaign of 74 points, the Herons showcased their dominance.

Group A: a clash of titans

If Inter Miami’s qualification was impressive, the Group A lineup is nothing short of monumental. Featuring Palmeiras, FC Porto, and Al Ahly, the group presents challenges of epic proportions. Call it luck or destiny, the Herons find themselves in a well-balanced yet fiercely competitive group.

Palmeiras

Palmeiras is a powerhouse in South American soccer, having won 12 Brazilian league titles. With the Portuguese coach Abel Ferreira, the team is known for its tactical intensity, with Raphael Veiga and Gustavo Gómez as standouts. Accustomed to high-stakes games, Palmeiras recently reached two Copa Libertadores finals and clinched consecutive league championships. Their experience and talent make them a formidable opponent.

FC Porto

FC Porto is one of the giants of European soccer, boasting 30 Portuguese league titles and seven international trophies. Coached by Vítor Bruno, the team boasts talents like goalkeeper Diogo Costa and forward Pepê. While this is Porto's first FIFA Club World Cup appearance, their track record of international success makes them a dangerous contender. That said, the Dragons aren't in their best form compared to other European heavyweights.

Al Ahly

The kings of African soccer, Al Ahly, bring unmatched experience with nine previous appearances in the tournament. The Egyptian club, a three-time CAF Champions League winner, is no stranger to facing global opponents, as seen in their 2022 victory over the Seattle Sounders. With skilled players like Emam Ashour and Marwan Ateya, and guided by coach Marcel Koller, Al Ahly combines tradition and consistency. They'll be a tough opening challenge for Inter Miami.

The grand opening match: Inter Miami vs. Al Ahly

The tournament finally begins with the first game between Inter Miami and Al Ahly in Miami at the Hard Rock Stadium on June 15. This will be the first opportunity for the Herons to establish their lead on home ground and make things tough for their opponents throughout the games. With the crowd on their side and Lionel Messi leading the charge, the stakes couldn't be higher. However, Al Ahly's tactical discipline and skilled roster ensure this will be no walk in the park.

A game-changer in Messi

Lionel Messi is the cornerstone of Inter Miami’s ambitions in this historic campaign. His arrival not only brought global attention to the club but also raised its technical level significantly. With unparalleled experience in international tournaments and a knack for game-changing moments, Messi is an undeniable asset. His influence extends beyond the pitch, fostering a winning culture that will be critical in navigating the challenges ahead.

Expectations and strategies

Inter Miami goes into this tournament as the underdog, which may prove to be a blessing in disguise. With no pressure of being favorites, the team can play with freedom and bank on individual skill to catch their opponents off guard. Coach Mascherano will have to balance using the offensive creativity of the squad while making sure the defense is consistent against more experienced teams.

The group stage will test Inter Miami’s adaptability. Each opponent brings a unique style: Palmeiras’ South American flair, Porto’s European precision, and Al Ahly’s African versatility. To advance, the Herons must capitalize on every opportunity and adjust their strategies swiftly.

A platform for growth

The success of Inter Miami in this tournament can mark a defining point in MLS. Such success will not only lock the position of the club in the international calendar but also raise investments and the best players' desire to enter the league. The FIFA Club World Cup presents a golden opportunity for proving that American soccer is taking another shape: the MLS has come up as the spot where stars are coming into existence, with some strong teams forming competition.