Lionel Messi Cleared to Play Against Porto in Club World Cup

Inter Miami global superstar Lionel Messi is eligible to play in Thursday’s crucial Club World Cup match vs. FC Porto. For the MLS team, it’s a big lift as they prepare to face what is likely to remain their toughest test in the group stage.

Manager Javier Mascherano took a moment to address the rumors regarding Messi’s fitness after a video showed the Argentine star appearing a bit off during Wednesday’s practice. He also told the media that Messi was participating in all practices and exhibited no problems during a demanding workout.

Mascherano’s comment about Messi’s fitness will ward off any prospect of a disaster for Inter Miami as their chances in the competition rest largely on their talisman. The coach dismissed any worries that Messi’s leg touch during practice indicated serious problems, describing it as a typical moment for any player.

Tactical Blueprint Centers Around Lionel Messi’s Influence

Inter Miami’s strategy against Porto seems to be all about making the most of Lionel Messi’s talents while also countering the Portuguese team’s European know-how. Mascherano has laid out a game plan focused on maintaining possession, which would enable Messi and his skilled teammates to control the pace of the match and carve out scoring chances through careful build-up play. This approach takes into account Porto’s strong history in the Champions League, while also tapping into Messi’s exceptional knack for breaking down tough defenses. 

Squad Reinforcements Support Lionel Messi’s Return

The return of the Spanish defender, Sergio Busquets, would not only provide Messi with a teammate he knew from Barcelona, but would also strengthen the team’s defense line. Given the extra freedom it would grant Messi in playing on Alba, he will potentially find himself in better positions and representing more of a threat when moving through games. Plus, given Alba’s tendency to attack and his unique crossing ability, there could be further opportunities for Messi to dominate in the attacking third.

Sergio Busquets Acknowledges Challenge Facing Lionel Messi

Sergio Busquets: Messi faces tough challenge at Inter Miami with Porto’s ‘old men ‘. Former Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets has provided an honest perspective on the task Lionel Messi and Inter Miami face against Porto’s galácticos – and he didn’t have the nicest things to say. The Spain striker said Porto had a strong tradition in matches against Portuguese clubs’ best and that Messi will be meeting a well-structured defense. Busquets identified a collective defensive performance as crucial. He also admitted that Messi’s unique abilities could make the difference in the decisive moments. 

The showdown with Porto is shaping up to be their biggest challenge yet, and Messi’s performance will be key to their hopes of advancing. Porto brings a wealth of experience from European competitions, which really highlights the contrast with Inter Miami’s more limited international history. However, having Lionel Messi on their team gives the American side a world-class advantage that can compete with anyone.

Global Spotlight Intensifies on Lionel Messi’s Club World Cup Journey

Lionel Messi will showcase his skills on football’s biggest stage, apart from the World Cup. His participation has generated significant international interest, increasing the tournament’s visibility and improving MLS’s global presence. 

Thursday’s match against Porto will be a true test of whether Messi can translate his legendary reputation into success against elite European teams. With his fitness issues resolved and strategies in place, Messi appears ready to grasp yet another important moment in his outstanding career.

Dialed in and on the move ✈️ ATL, we’re coming 🔜 pic.twitter.com/wJ1uBz25cZ

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) June 18, 2025

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