Messi's Club World Cup Showdown: Will the Superstar Take the Field Against Al Ahly?
Lionel Messi is expected to capture immediate attention and headlines at the upcoming 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
While the 37-year-old superstar and his Major League Soccer team Inter Miami aren't anticipated to advance far in the 32-team competition, football enthusiasts worldwide will be eager to watch the eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient compete against some worthy opponents.
Inter Miami will commence their Club World Cup journey against Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly, hoping to start with a win. With Messi on their roster, possibilities are endless.
But will the Argentinian face Al Ahly shortly after returning from international commitments?
Will Lionel Messi Play Against Al Ahly?
Despite recently returning from two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches with Argentina—where Messi participated against both Chile and Colombia—there's no uncertainty regarding the former Barcelona icon's position in Javier Mascherano's initial lineup. He'll be looking to maintain his exceptional club performance, having contributed to eight goals across his previous three matches.
Messi is likely to be positioned alongside Luis Suárez at the forefront in a 4-4-2 formation, enabling him to maximize his attacking influence without being burdened by defensive duties.
This season, Messi has started in 12 of Inter Miami's 16 MLS fixtures and has recorded 15 goal contributions throughout those appearances. He undoubtedly remains the club's brightest star.
When Is Inter Miami's First Club World Cup Match?
Inter Miami will participate in the tournament's opening match on Saturday, June 14 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, United States. The encounter will begin at 8 p.m. ET and 3 p.m. PT for American viewers.
Their debated status as tournament hosts has placed them in Group A, where they'll face Al Ahly in the first of 63 total fixtures throughout the month-long competition.
Inter Miami's Club World Cup Schedule
Following Inter Miami's opening contest against Al Ahly, they have two additional group stage matches. First, they'll travel to Atlanta to challenge two-time UEFA Champions League victors Porto on Thursday, June 19. The Portuguese club is favored to finish atop Group A.
Their concluding group encounter will be against Brazilian side Palmeiras on Monday, June 23. They must finish among the top two to advance to the knockout phase where they would confront either the winner or runner-up from Group B. Ending third or fourth would result in their elimination.