Inter Miami is set to face off against Egyptian football powerhouse Al Ahly in a highly anticipated clash at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. This inaugural match of the rebranded and expanded tournament will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida, on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 8 PM local time (00:00 GMT on June 15). Al Jazeera Sport will provide comprehensive coverage of the event, commencing at 6 PM (16:00 GMT).
The FIFA Club World Cup, which has undergone significant expansion to include 32 teams, promises to showcase elite football talents from around the globe. Inter Miami, featuring global superstar Lionel Messi, secured their place in the tournament by finishing as the top team in Major League Soccer’s (MLS) regular season. Their historic performance was highlighted by a record-breaking 6-2 victory over New England Revolution, earning them a remarkable 74 points—one more than the previous regular-season record set by New England in 2021.
Al Ahly earned their spot in this prestigious tournament by clinching the CAF Champions League title two seasons ago, further solidifying their reputation as Africa’s most successful club. Despite last season’s challenges, including a semi-final exit in the CAF tournament, the team has regrouped under new coach Jose Riveiro, who previously managed Orlando Pirates. The match against Inter Miami will mark Riveiro’s debut with the club.
Meanwhile, former Manchester United and England star David Beckham remains a prominent figure within the ownership of Inter Miami. After purchasing a million stake in the club back in 2014, Beckham has played a significant role in the franchise’s development, which officially debuted in 2020. Inter Miami is jointly owned by prominent American business figures Jorge and Jose Mas.
Lionel Messi brings a wealth of experience to this tournament, having previously won the FIFA Club World Cup twice with FC Barcelona in 2009 and 2011. His presence on the field significantly elevates Inter Miami’s prospects in the tournament. Coach Javier Mascherano emphasized the importance of maintaining an environment conducive to Messi’s success, as the team has endured a series of injuries this season.
Al Ahly, having trained extensively in the United States prior to the tournament, boasts a fully fit squad led by star player Mahmoud Trezeguet. The Egyptian champions also recently played a competitive warm-up match against Pachuca, indicating their readiness for the challenges ahead.
As both teams gear up for this exciting encounter, the FIFA Club World Cup represents not only a significant sporting event but also a celebration of global football culture, drawing together teams and fans from diverse backgrounds. The tournament promises to offer thrilling moments and unforgettable performances as clubs vie for a share of the impressive billion prize pot, with winners potentially receiving up to 5 million.
This match will not only spotlight top-tier teams but also foster cross-cultural engagement among fans and communities, highlighting the growing global nature of football.
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