Lionel Messi and Inter Miami have learned their path for next year's Club World Cup. The host team, despite facing criticism, will kick off the tournament on June 15 against Egyptian club Al Ahly. The group also includes Palmeiras and Porto.
Other notable opening matches include Paris Saint-Germain versus Atletico Madrid, Botafogo against Seattle Sounders, Monterrey versus Inter Milan, and Real Madrid facing Al-Hilal.
The draw, held in Miami, revealed the first three opponents for the 32 teams participating in the expanded event. The tournament will take place in the U.S. from June 15 to July 13, utilizing 12 stadiums across 11 cities, with the final set for MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The field includes powerhouse clubs such as Manchester City, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, PSG, Chelsea, Borussia Dortmund, and Inter Milan, as well as top South American teams like Flamengo, Palmeiras, River Plate, and Fluminense.
Inter Miami, representing the host nation, will play the first match at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the inclusivity of bringing together the best clubs and players from around the world.
The selection of Inter Miami was met with criticism, especially after the team that won the Supporters Shield lost in the MLS Cup playoffs. However, MLS Commissioner Don Garber supported FIFA's decision, highlighting the opportunity to showcase Miami and Seattle on a global stage.
The tournament follows a 32-team format with eight groups of four teams each. Europe secured 12 spots, South America six, and Africa, Asia, and North America four each, with Oceania earning one spot.
Inter Miami's managing owner, Jorge Mas, expressed pride in the club's journey and the chance to compete against the world's best teams. The group stage matchups promise exciting clashes between top clubs, setting the stage for a thrilling competition.
The groups:
Group A: Palmeiras, Porto, Al Ahly, Inter Miami.
Group B: Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle.
Group C: Bayern Munich, Auckland City, Boca Juniors, Benfica.
Group D: Flamengo, ES Tunis, Chelsea, Leon.
Group E: River Plate, Urawa, Monterrey, Inter Milan.
Group F: Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund, Ulsan, Mamelodi Sundowns.
Group G: Manchester City, Wydad, Al Ain, Juventus.
Group H: Real Madrid, Al-Hilal, Pachuca, Salzburg.
