Introduction
Inter Miami CF, the Major League Soccer (MLS) club that captured global attention with their stellar 2024 season, is poised to make a historic debut at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025. By clinching the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield with a record-breaking 74 points, Inter Miami secured their spot as the host nation’s representative in this prestigious global tournament, held in the United States from June 14 to July 13, 2025. Led by football icon Lionel Messi, alongside stars like Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami aims to showcase their talent against the world’s elite clubs. The expanded 32-team format makes this a landmark event, uniting top teams from every continent, and Inter Miami’s participation signals a new era for American football on the global stage.
Inter Miami CF’s Qualification Journey
Inter Miami CF earned their place in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 through an exceptional 2024 MLS season, where they won the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record. Their 74 points, achieved through 22 wins, eight draws, and only four losses, set a new MLS record for the most points in a single season, as noted by Inter Miami CF. As the host country representative, Inter Miami benefits from playing key matches at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, including the tournament’s opening game. This qualification reflects their rapid rise since their MLS debut in 2020 and underscores their growing influence in American and global football, driven by strategic signings and a commitment to excellence.
Key Players to Watch
Inter Miami CF’s squad for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 is a blend of world-class veterans and promising young talents, making them a formidable contender. Here are the standout players expected to shine, based on data from AiScore:
- Lionel Messi (Forward): The 37-year-old Argentine legend transformed Inter Miami since joining in 2023. In 2024, he led the team to the Supporters’ Shield, breaking the MLS points record. His creativity, vision, and goal-scoring ability (market value: €20.0M) make him the team’s linchpin.
- Luis Suárez (Forward): The 38-year-old Uruguayan striker, with a contract extended through 2025, forms a lethal partnership with Messi. His clinical finishing and experience (market value: €2.8M) will be crucial in high-stakes matches.
- Sergio Busquets (Midfielder): The 36-year-old Spanish veteran anchors the midfield with his exceptional passing and tactical intelligence (market value: €1.8M). His experience from multiple UEFA Champions League titles adds composure.
- Jordi Alba (Defender): The 35-year-old left-back, with a contract option exercised for 2025, provides defensive solidity and attacking flair (market value: €2.0M). His synergy with Messi and Busquets is a key asset.
- Benjamin Cremaschi (Midfielder): The 20-year-old American, a product of Inter Miami’s academy, has shown promise with his energy and versatility (market value: €4.0M).
- Federico Redondo Solari (Midfielder): The 22-year-old, son of former Real Madrid star Fernando Redondo, brings creativity and potential (market value: €6.5M).
Under new coach Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi, this squad combines experience and youth to compete at the highest level.
Inter Miami CF in Group A and Tournament Outlook
Inter Miami CF has been drawn into Group A, facing Al Ahly (Egypt), FC Porto (Portugal), and Palmeiras (Brazil). Their group stage schedule, as confirmed by Inter Miami CF, is:
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
| June 14, 2025 | Al Ahly | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami |
| June 19, 2025 | FC Porto | Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta |
| June 23, 2025 | Palmeiras | Hard Rock Stadium, Miami |
Group A is a tough draw, with Al Ahly’s CAF Champions League pedigree, FC Porto’s European experience, and Palmeiras’ South American flair. Inter Miami’s home advantage at Hard Rock Stadium for two matches could be pivotal. Their attacking prowess, led by Messi and Suárez, will challenge opponents, but their defensive organization will need to hold firm against Porto’s tactical discipline and Al Ahly’s pace. With Mascherano’s strategic insight, Inter Miami has a strong chance of advancing to the knockout stages if they leverage their star power and home support.
Why Inter Miami CF Could Win the FIFA Club World Cup 2025
Inter Miami CF’s potential to win the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 lies in their star-studded core and recent success. The quartet of Messi, Suárez, Busquets, and Alba, who won multiple titles together at Barcelona, brings unmatched experience and chemistry. Their 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield triumph demonstrates their ability to perform consistently under pressure, as highlighted by AS USA. Despite an early MLS playoff exit in 2024, their record-breaking regular season shows their resilience.
Young players like Cremaschi and Redondo Solari add dynamism, while Mascherano’s appointment as coach brings fresh tactical ideas. While European giants like Real Madrid and Manchester City are favorites, Inter Miami’s home advantage and Messi’s ability to deliver in big moments make them a dark horse capable of a deep tournament run.
How to Watch and Fan Engagement
Fans can watch all Inter Miami CF matches at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 live on DAZN, which streams all 63 games for free with a DAZN Freemium account. For those eager to attend in person, tickets start at $40 via FIFA.com. Inter Miami Season Ticket Members have priority access to tickets, as noted by Inter Miami CF. Engage with the global fanbase on social media using hashtags like #FIFACWC, #InterMiami, and #ClubWorldCup2025, and share predictions in the comments to join the excitement.
Conclusion
Inter Miami CF’s debut in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 marks a historic moment for the club and Major League Soccer. With a squad led by Lionel Messi and bolstered by Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, the Herons are ready to compete against the world’s best. Their record-breaking 2024 season and home advantage at Hard Rock Stadium position them as serious contenders. As they face a challenging Group A, fans across the USA and beyond will rally behind them, hoping to see Inter Miami make history. Follow their journey and celebrate this milestone for American football.