Inter Miami are set to lock horns with Egyptian side Al Ahly in the first match of the Club World Cup, on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium, Florida.
Speaking ahead of the upcoming competition, Inter Miami head coach, Javier Mascherano shared his thoughts (comments via News18) on what he referred to as ‘a huge opportunity,’ while mentioning that the Lionel Messi-led squad is focusing on ‘things they can control.’
“This is a unique competition and we are privileged to be a part of it. We are here thanks to what we did last year and I think it is a huge opportunity to test each other out and see what our level is,” he said.
“Let’s hope it is in optimal condition, in this I think FIFA is well experienced but as I always say, we concentrate on things we can control,” Mascherano added.
The Argentine coach also provided an update on his squad ahead of the opening match, stating that Jordi Alba and Yannick Bright will be ‘unavailable’ for the clash.
What did Inter Miami boss say about Leo Messi’s teammates?
Mascherano mentioned that Alba and Bright will not feature in Inter Miami’s upcoming match, with hopes of the duo returning from the second game onwards.
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“Jordi and Yannick are not available for this game but hopefully they will be for the second game. Obviously we would have loved to have everyone fit for this game and have our full roster, that would allow us to be stronger,” he said.
Inter Miami, along with Al Ahly, Sociedade Esportiva Palmeiras, and FC Porto, are sorted into Group A for the Club World Cup. Messi & Co. are pitted against the Portuguese side for their second match of the competition, slated for June 19.
Lionel Messi & Inter Miami news and related links
