Messi and Inter Miami Set to Make Club World Cup History Against Porto
The grand spectacle that Gianni Infantino had promised to launch the tournament failed to materialize, and Inter Miami struggled to find their rhythm in their opening match against Al Ahly.
For the entire first half, Lionel Messi's squad was completely absent from the game, leaving fans hoping to witness the Argentine maestro's brilliance feeling somewhat let down. While there was no magical display from Messi in Miami, their enhanced performance in the second period gives the Herons confidence heading into more challenging Group A encounters with Porto and Palmeiras.
The Portuguese club, who were also lucky to secure a draw in their opener, will be Miami's next opponents, and a favorable outcome appears necessary to maintain their tournament hopes.
Here's how Inter Miami, making their debut competitive appearance against European rivals, might set up for their second Club World Cup match on Thursday.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. Porto (4-4-2)
GK: Óscar Ustari—Ustari is filling in solely due to Drake Callender's hernia issue. Miami's substitute keeper was the standout performer in their draw with Al Ahly, and he's expected to feature throughout the competition with Callender's return doubtful.
RB: Marcelo Weigandt—A defensive reorganization is anticipated under Mascherano, with the Argentine Weigandt potentially benefiting from the coach's planned adjustments.
CB: Maximiliano Falcón—Thursday's encounter with Porto will likely represent the most challenging match of Falcón's professional journey, as he'll face plenty of pressure from Samu Aghehowa in Miami.
CB: David Martínez—The 21-year-old Tomás Avilés had difficulties against Al Ahly and was substituted, making his retention unlikely. The loaned Martínez should step in to form a partnership with Falcón.
LB: Noah Allen—The talented Allen is set to replace Jordi Alba at left-back once more, as the former Spanish national team player continues recovering from his hamstring problem.
RM: Fafà Picault—The Haitian national team player has seen inconsistent playing time this campaign, though he's delivered solid performances when given opportunities. The winger was the first substitute in the previous match and could earn a starting role here.
CM: Federico Redondo—The promising Redondo will be looking to make an impression at the tournament, though he couldn't establish control in the opening fixture. This represents a significant chance for him against quality European competition.
CM: Sergio Busquets—Among Inter Miami players, none has accumulated more MLS playing time this year than Busquets, and he completed the full 90 minutes on Saturday. His physical condition remains solid.
LM: Telasco Segovia—The 22-year-old hasn't been a consistent starter this season, but his effective MLS performances suggest Segovia will play an important part for Miami in this competition. He's someone who could emerge if their star players are contained.
ST: Lionel Messi—Messi showed glimpses of his quality late against Al Ahly, but the Miami skipper couldn't quite secure victory for the Herons on the opening day. This marks only his second career meeting with Porto.
ST: Luis Suárez—Mascherano's offensive strategy revolves around these two legends up front, and Suárez had begun the MLS campaign in excellent form before his quiet showing against Al Ahly.