Historically Significant: Club World Cup, Deemed Most Notable, According to Mascherano, of Inter Miami
In the world of football, the Club World Cup is considered the pinnacle of club competitions, and for Inter Miami, it's the most important event in their history, according to Javier Mascherano. This ambitious statement mirrors the club's determination to make a mark on the global stage, despite being a relatively young team.
Mascherano, the experienced former Barcelona player, has high expectations for the tournament, particularly for star man Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar has a rich history in the Club World Cup, scoring five goals in just five matches with Barcelona.
However, Inter Miami faces some challenges. Defenders Jordi Alba and Gonzalo Lujan have been ruled out of their first match, but fortunately, Messi should be fit to play. The team has also been hit hard by injuries this season, but those who stepped in have risen to the challenge.
Inter Miami, Seattle Sounders, and Los Angeles FC are three Major League Soccer (MLS) teams participating in the revamped 32-team Club World Cup tournament. The tournament will see them compete against top-tier clubs like Al Ahly, Palmeiras, and Porto.
Inter Miami has been placed in Group A, alongside Palmeiras, Porto, and Egyptian side Al Ahly. According to the Opta supercomputer, Inter Miami has a 22.9% chance of reaching the last 16 in the Club World Cup. However, Al Ahly, their first opponents, have a lower probability of progressing from Group A, with a 18.3% chance.
The team boasts several experienced players, including Jordi Alba, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets, who have previously won the Club World Cup with Barcelona. Mascherano has expressed his frustration at the lack of signings after multiple injuries occurred ahead of Inter Miami's Club World Cup opener, emphasizing the need for team strengthening.
The Group A campaign begins on June 14 against Al Ahly. Mascherano's tactics and team management during the tournament will be influenced by the pressure to deliver results, especially with Messi on the team. The Club World Cup offers a valuable opportunity for Inter Miami to gain experience against top-tier clubs, which can help shape their future performances.
Mascherano, with his high expectations for the Club World Cup, believes that Lionel Messi could make a significant impact, given his impressive past performance in the tournament. However, the absence of defenders Jordi Alba and Gonzalo Lujan presents a challenge for Inter Miami in their first match.
