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The Argentine star Lionel Messi will be the one to kick off the revamped FIFA Club World Cup, which begins this Saturday at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami with the match between Inter Miami and Egypt's Al Ahly.
This will be the first of 63 matches that will determine the new world club champion on July 13 in New Jersey.
Inter Miami is participating in this prestigious tournament as the champion of the Supporters' Shield 2024, an award recognizing the best team of the regular season in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The team led by Javier Mascherano has been placed in a highly competitive group alongside Palmeiras from Brazil and Porto from Portugal, two traditional powerhouses of international football.
“It is an important step for the MLS to be able to compete with clubs that have a much larger history. This international exposure will help us grow,” stated Alfonso Mondelo, the sports director of the MLS, in statements to EFE.
Messi arrives at a stellar moment. In his last three matches with Inter Miami, the Argentine scored five goals and provided three assists, performances that earned him the Player of the Month award in MLS.
In the current season, he has already scored 10 goals and provided 6 assists in 13 matches, and he recently won the 2024 MVP title after a remarkable campaign with 21 goals and 18 assists.
About to turn 38 years old (on June 24), the world champion continues to showcase his significant influence in every match.
The pink team has reactivated after a negative streak —with only one victory in eight matches and elimination in the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions League— with decisive wins against Montreal (4-2) and Columbus Crew (5-1).
The positive team atmosphere complements the high individual level of their captain.
Mascherano leads a squad filled with established stars, including Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, who along with Messi dream of making their mark in this new Club World Cup.
The revamped tournament, featuring the participation of the world's top clubs, marks a turning point for MLS and global club football.
The inaugural match not only symbolizes the rise of Inter Miami but also the consolidation of Messi as a global icon who continues to write memorable chapters in his extensive career.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Club World Cup and Lionel Messi's Participation
What is Lionel Messi's role in the 2025 Club World Cup?
Lionel Messi is the captain of Inter Miami and will lead the team in the revamped Club World Cup 2025. This tournament is a significant milestone for the club and MLS, as they compete against clubs with a greater international history. Messi, who is at a stellar moment in his career, hopes to leave his mark on this prestigious event.
Why is it important for MLS to participate in the Club World Cup?
Participation in the Club World Cup represents a significant advancement for MLS. Competing with internationally renowned clubs, the American league aims to gain experience and global recognition. This exposure could boost the growth and competitiveness of soccer in the United States, strengthening its presence on the international stage.
What recent achievements support Lionel Messi's career at Inter Miami?
In the 2024 season, Messi was named MVP of the MLS. With 21 goals and 18 assists, his performance was crucial for Inter Miami to win the 2024 Supporters' Shield. Additionally, in recent matches, Messi has maintained an outstanding level, scoring five goals and providing three assists in just three games.
How has Inter Miami prepared for the 2025 Club World Cup?
Inter Miami, managed by Javier Mascherano, has strengthened its squad with stars like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The team has recently shown strong collective performance, reversing a negative streak with decisive victories and displaying cohesive play that complements Messi's high level.
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