Izuchukwu Okosi
Lionel Messi is expected to play in Inter Miami’s meeting against one of Africa’s representatives, Al Ahly in the opening game of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Inter Miami’s head coach Jose Riveiro is without Mohamed Abdallah, Reda Slim and Samir Maohamed all miss out due to injury.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAl Ahly is expected to play a 4-2-3-1 formation in this opening game.
Javier Mascherano is without no fewer than six players due to injury and that could scupper his plans.
Noah Allen is set to start at left-back in place of the absent Jordi Alba, while Yannick Bright’s absence paves the way for Benjamin Cremaschi to partner Sergio Busquets in midfield.
Mascherano is expected to go with a 4-4-2 setup, with Lionel Messi joining Luis Suarez on the frontline.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas reportedly set the goal for Inter Miami at the Club World Cup: qualify for the knockout rounds, as disclosed by some media organizations.
If they achieve that, the tournament could be a success for ownership.
Coach Javier Mascherano is opting for a more realistic approach, admitting the level they are set to face at the Club World Cup will be higher than any Concacaf Champions Cup or MLS game.
READ ALSO: Martino Calls For Messi Patience From Inter Miami Fans
Al Ahly are Africa’s most successful team in the last century and are expected to be a mincemeat for the star-studded but ageing Inter Miami side.
The Egyptian giants are looking to maintain their impressive seven-game unbeaten streak, winning each of the last six.
Inter Miami on their part have responded to a recent four-game winless run with back-to-back victories, scoring nine goals in the process.
The MLS side will be playing on somewhat-familiar Florida turf, which is a boost.
With this game taking place at the Hard Rock Stadium, that should work in Inter Miami’s favour and they should feel confident about kicking off the competition with a win.
Prime Business Africa’s prediction: Al Ahly 2-2 Inter Miami.
Izuchukwu Okosi is a Nigerian sports and entertainment journalist with two decades of experience in the media industry having begun his media journey in 2002 as an intern at Mundial Sports International (MSI) and Africa Independent Television (AIT), owners of Daar Communications Plc.
