Inter Miami CF Eyes Round of 16 Glory Against Palmeiras in Crucial Showdown
Inter Miami find themselves needing to secure results in Group A following their draw against Al Ahly in their opening match, but their surprising win over Porto has positioned the Herons favorably for qualification.
The inclusion of the legendary Lionel Messi is likely the primary factor behind David Beckham's club's participation in the Club World Cup, and the Argentine maestro delivered a spectacular performance in their second fixture in Atlanta to enhance his side's advancement prospects.
A favorable outcome against the formidable Palmeiras would secure their spot in the knockout stage, and even a loss on Monday might not matter. Multiple factors would need to align against them for an early tournament exit.
Here's how Javier Mascherano might arrange his squad against the Brazilian opponents.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. Palmeiras (4-4-2)
GK: Óscar Ustari—Ustari faced less pressure against Porto, with the Argentine goalkeeper filling in due to Drake Callender's hernia issue.
RB: Tomás Avilés—Mascherano might need to adjust his defensive lineup on Monday following injuries from their second match. With Marcelo Weigandt substituted in Atlanta, Avilés appears to be the logical replacement.
CB: Maximiliano Falcón—Despite Samu Aghehowa converting from the penalty spot, Falcón managed the Porto forward's physical presence effectively. He's certain to start this match.
CB: David Martínez—Given Ian Fray's groin problem against Porto, Mascherano could rely on Martínez for this encounter.
LB: Jordi Alba—The Spanish defender entered the tournament with a hamstring concern and was absent from the opening draw against Al Ahly. Nevertheless, Alba returned for the second match and is expected to make his first Club World Cup start this summer.
RM: Tadeo Allende—The ex-Celta Vigo player has been consistent in MLS this campaign, netting six goals. Though he hasn't scored in this tournament yet, he's likely to earn a third consecutive start.
CM: Benjamin Cremaschi—The 20-year-old was preferred over Federico Redondo against Porto, and Miami's midfield appeared more cohesive than in their opener. Consequently, the coach is unlikely to alter his central area.
CM: Sergio Busquets—The veteran midfielder remains effective and shows no physical decline at the tournament's start. A tough Palmeiras midfield will try to disrupt Busquets' classic playing style.
LM: Telasco Segovia—Segovia was identified as one of the non-star players who could make a significant impact for the Herons this summer, and the Venezuelan attacker helped Miami recover from their early disadvantage in the second match by netting an excellent leveling goal.
ST: Lionel Messi—When Messi displays the form he showed against Porto, Miami becomes competitive against any team in this competition. A Brazilian-heavy Palmeiras squad will be eager to outplay the Argentine legend.
ST: Luis Suárez—Suárez has yet to make his mark at the Club World Cup, and this presents an ideal opportunity for his first significant impact.