Mascherano spoke about Messi's performance in the debut against Al Ahly

The 2025 Club World Cup kicked off with a goalless draw between Inter Miami and Al Ahly of Egypt, in a match where all eyes were on Lionel Messi, the star of the American team. Although the match had no goals, it was highly contested, and one of the main concerns was the physical condition of the Rosario native.

Regarding this, Javier Mascherano, coach of the North American team, was clear in the post-match press conference: "Messi is fine, if he plays it's because he's fine. He came from Argentina with no issues. We have five days to rest, which we believe is enough, but we assess that day by day".

Mascherano also highlighted Messi's football level and the importance of taking care of him for what's ahead: "I see him at a very, very good level. We're here to help him in every possible way. We have to do everything to ensure he arrives in the best possible condition next year", stated the Argentine coach.

He also emphasized the need to connect better with the star: "Clearly, when we find Leo in positions and get the ball to him in the best way, that's when we have the most options".

Meanwhile, Oscar Ustari, the team's goalkeeper, was one of the standout players of the match. "In the first half he kept us alive, not only with the penalty, but with two or three interventions that ultimately prevented them from scoring", praised Mascherano.

Inter Miami's next match

After the draw, the Florida team will face a European opponent: Porto of Portugal, as part of the second matchday of Group A. The match will take place next Thursday, June 19 at 4:00 p.m. (Argentina time), where Las Garzas will seek their first victory in the international tournament.