On June 18, 2025, Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Lionel Messi is fit to face FC Porto in their Club World Cup Group A match on June 19 in Atlanta. This dispelled concerns after a video showed Messi touching his left leg during training. The Messi Club World Cup 2025 update highlights Inter Miami’s preparations for a crucial game, as reported by ESPN.
Mascherano addressed a viral training video, stating, “Leo is fit; he completed the entire session,” despite Messi’s apparent discomfort. Former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba, who was absent for the 0-0 draw against Al Ahly, is now available, although it’s still unclear whether he will start. Mascherano emphasised the importance of possession in their upcoming match against Porto, a regular in the Champions League, saying, “We’re 11 vs. 11; we’ll shut down their strengths,” according to CBS Sports.
Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami look for their first win against two-time Champions League winners Porto at the Club World Cup.https://t.co/edpZEN66Bh
— AJE Sport (@AJE_Sport) June 18, 2025Midfielder Sergio Busquets, another ex-Barcelona star, acknowledged Porto’s strength, noting their competitiveness against Sporting and Benfica. “We must be solid, stick together, and keep a clean sheet,” he told reporters, per Reuters. Per MLS Soccer, Inter Miami aims to leverage Messi’s finishing ability while maintaining defensive discipline.
Inter Miami’s draw against Al Ahly on June 14 intensified pressure for points against Porto, with Palmeiras next in Group A. The Inter Miami vs. Porto clash at Mercedes-Benz Stadium tests the MLS side’s mettle, with Mascherano, Messi’s fitness and Jordi Alba’s return boosting morale. The Busquets Porto strategy underscores a team-first approach.
The Messi Club World Cup 2025 spotlight, with Mascherano Messi fitness confirmed, elevates Inter Miami’s global stage presence. The Inter Miami vs Porto match, bolstered by Jordi Alba’s return and Busquets’ Porto strategy, could define their tournament run, drawing worldwide attention to soccer’s elite in 2025.
