A new chapter in international club football begins this Saturday, June 14, as the expanded 32-team FIFA Club World Cup kicks off in Florida. All eyes will be on global icon Lionel Messi, who leads his Inter Miami side into the tournament’s curtain-raiser against African giants Al Ahly.
The fixture marks more than just the start of a new format—it’s a mouthwatering clash of styles, history, and ambition. Both clubs have their eyes set on a strong start in Group A, which also features Brazilian champions Palmeiras and Portuguese heavyweights FC Porto.
If recent form is anything to go by, fans can expect fireworks at the Hard Rock Stadium. Al Ahly are coming off a blistering playoff campaign in the Egyptian Premier League, scoring 22 goals in just 8 matches. The Cairo-based club, seasoned Club World Cup participants, have reached the semi-finals in four of the last five editions and show no signs of slowing down.
Inter Miami, meanwhile, are known for their free-scoring ways but have defensive issues to resolve. The Floridian side hasn’t kept a clean sheet in any of their last 10 games. Their most recent outings included a 3-3 draw with Philadelphia, a 4-2 win over Montreal, and a 5-1 demolition of Columbus Crew—evidence of both attacking brilliance and defensive vulnerability.
Inter Miami’s squad is headlined by Lionel Messi, a living legend whose presence alone elevates the profile of the competition. With multiple ex-Barcelona teammates around him and coach Javier Mascherano on the touchline, Inter will rely on experience, chemistry, and their home advantage to navigate this opening clash.
Injury Report
Inter Miami: Jordi Alba, Yannick Bright, Gonzalo Luján, Drake Callender and David Ruiz
Al Ahly: No major injuries reported according to Livescore.com
With Palmeiras and Porto lurking in Group A, this opening match could have significant implications for qualification to the last-16. Both Al Ahly and Inter Miami will be desperate to claim all three points and take control of their destiny.
Opening games in major tournaments can sometimes fall flat—but not this one. With Messi on the pitch, Al Ahly in form, and both teams eager to make history in the revamped format, this promises to be a thrilling start to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
