Lionel Messi is set to play in Inter Miami’s crucial Club World Cup 2025 Group A match against FC Porto, despite initial concerns about his fitness. Speculation about Messi’s availability arose after a video surfaced showing the Argentine icon touching his left leg during a training session. However, Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has dismissed injury concerns, confirming Messi will lead the team on Thursday in Atlanta.
Mascherano, speaking at a pre-match press conference, reassured fans and the media: “Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session. He was touching his leg, sometimes people touch themselves, but there’s no problem. Obviously, he will play tomorrow.”
Messi Fit, Alba Returns – Inter Miami’s Key Updates Before FC Porto Clash
The Club World Cup 2025 is a major event for Inter Miami, and all eyes are on their top star, Lionel Messi, as the MLS side prepares for a tough encounter with Portugal’s FC Porto. Alongside Messi, veteran left-back Jordi Alba has also returned to the squad after missing the opening 0-0 draw against Al Ahly.
Mascherano hinted at Alba’s involvement, saying, “We’ll evaluate what’s best for us, if he starts or not. Actually, I already know but I won’t tell you.”
The coach emphasized the importance of possession-based football and controlling the tempo against a seasoned Porto side that regularly competes in the UEFA Champions League.
Inter Miami vs FC Porto – Match Detail
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Fixture | Inter Miami vs FC Porto |
| Tournament | FIFA Club World Cup 2025 – Group A |
| Date | Thursday, June 19, 2025 |
| Kickoff Time (IST) | 23:30 IST |
| Venue | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, USA |
| Key Player | Lionel Messi (Inter Miami) |
| Coach Statement | “Messi is fit and ready” – Mascherano |
| Return from Injury | Jordi Alba (Inter Miami) |
Mascherano’s Tactical Outlook: Control Through Possession
Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona, emphasized the need to dominate possession against Porto. “We have players who feel more comfortable when they have control of the game through the ball,” said the coach.
Mascherano also acknowledged the quality of FC Porto, calling them “a high-level side” that will challenge Inter Miami’s strategy. “Of course, we’re facing a team that also is used to doing that. But on the pitch, we’re 11 against 11. We’ll try to shut down their strengths and expose their weaknesses,” he added.
The clash against FC Porto is pivotal for Inter Miami, especially after a lackluster draw against Al Ahly. The team must secure a win to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stage of the Club World Cup 2025.
Busquets: “We Must Stay Solid Against Porto’s Strength”
Veteran midfielder Sergio Busquets, another former Barcelona teammate of Lionel Messi, stressed the importance of a solid defensive display. “They are a team that competes every year for their league title, against other great teams like Sporting and Benfica,” he said. “We will try to be as solid as possible, stick close together, and try to do the best we can as a team.”
Busquets acknowledged Porto’s strength and international experience, admitting that Inter Miami must be tactically sound and disciplined. “If we get chances, we have the individuals who can finish them. But above all, we have to be solid and keep a clean sheet,” he concluded.
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Conclusion
As Lionel Messi prepares to lead Inter Miami into a crucial battle against FC Porto, fans can rest assured that their star is fit and ready. With Jordi Alba’s return and tactical insights from Mascherano and Busquets, Inter Miami looks to secure a vital win in their Club World Cup 2025 campaign. The match promises intensity, tactics, and a showdown between South American flair and European discipline.
