Inter Miami, led by coach Javier Mascherano, enters the FIFA Club World Cup with confidence but recognizes the difficulty ahead in their first match against Egypt’s Al Ahly on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium. Despite a recent unbeaten run following a 3-0 defeat to Orlando City last month, Mascherano insists that his team respects the quality of opponents at the tournament, especially Al Ahly.

Mascherano emphasized the increase in competition level at the Club World Cup compared to Major League Soccer. He told Ahram Online,

“This victory shows us that if we stay brave and composed, we can compete with any team, especially in MLS.”

He continued,

“But the Club World Cup is a different level. The competition is much tougher, and I must be realistic, including Al Ahly. People may think they’re a weaker opponent, but I’m telling you, they’re not. Far from it. We’ll compete, stay true to ourselves, and not fear mistakes. We have to keep pushing forward.”

Inter Miami is placed in Group A alongside Palmeiras, Porto, and Al Ahly, highlighting a demanding path in the tournament.

Al Ahly’s defensive strategy to counter Lionel Messi and Inter Miami’s threat

Karim Fouad, a key defender for Al Ahly, shared the team’s mindset and approach ahead of the opening fixture against Inter Miami. Speaking to Btolat, Fouad expressed faith in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion while acknowledging Messi’s status as a global football icon.

He commented,

“Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, is a football icon – but we trust in God and leave our faith in his hands.”

Fouad also highlighted Al Ahly’s strong squad depth:

“We’ve got a solid quad, with top-level players in every position, we’re capable of achieving something big. We expect to deliver a performance that reflects the name and character of Al Ahly – and that wouldn’t be a surprise.”

Known as the most decorated club in the CAF Champions League with 12 titles, Al Ahly has maintained supremacy in Egyptian football, capturing eight league titles in the last decade.

Significance of the Club World Cup clash for both teams

The upcoming match represents a pivotal challenge for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, as they must face a highly experienced and decorated Al Ahly side. The game will test Inter Miami’s readiness against elite international competition beyond their local MLS experience. Meanwhile, Al Ahly aims to assert their footballing prestige on a global stage, relying on their talent and historic success.

This opener may set the tone for the tournament, influencing both teams‘ confidence and momentum as they seek to advance from a competitive group that includes renowned clubs Palmeiras and Porto. The battle reflects the broader fight for supremacy between MLS clubs and traditional football powerhouses from Africa and South America.