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In a significant development for Major League Soccer and global football, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has officially announced that Inter Miami has secured a spot in the inaugural 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. This announcement comes on the heels of a remarkable season for the club, highlighted by the exceptional performances of Lionel Messi and his teammates.
A Historic Achievement
Inter Miami’s qualification was confirmed during a celebration event at Chase Stadium, coinciding with the conclusion of the MLS regular season. The team capped off their campaign with a commanding 6-2 victory over the New England Revolution, where Messi scored a stunning hat trick. This victory not only solidified their position at the top of the league but also helped them break the MLS regular-season points record, finishing with 74 points, surpassing the previous record of 73 set by New England in 2021.
Infantino, addressing the crowd, stated, “Congratulations on your wonderful 2024 Supporters’ Shield success. You have shown that in the United States, you are consistently the best club on the field of play.” He emphasized that Inter Miami’s performance throughout the season warranted their inclusion in this prestigious tournament.
Tournament Details
The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, will feature 32 teams from around the globe. Inter Miami will kick off the tournament at Hard Rock Stadium, marking a historic moment for both the club and MLS. The tournament will include renowned clubs such as Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich, among others.
Selection Criteria
While traditionally spots in such tournaments are awarded based on continental championships and playoff success, FIFA decided to grant this particular slot to Inter Miami as the host nation representative. This decision has sparked some debate among fans and analysts regarding fairness and sporting merit. Critics argue that the final spot should have been allocated based on pre-established criteria or awarded to the MLS Cup champion.
Messi’s Impact
Lionel Messi’s presence in this tournament is expected to elevate its profile significantly. Since joining Inter Miami midseason last year, Messi has made an immediate impact, leading them to a Leagues Cup title and now securing their place in this global showcase. Despite missing nearly half of the 2024 season due to injuries and international commitments, he has managed to score 20 goals in just 19 appearances.
Looking Ahead
As Inter Miami prepares for both the upcoming MLS playoffs and their participation in the Club World Cup, expectations are high among fans and analysts alike. The team’s blend of star power, led by Messi and supported by players like Luis Suarez, positions them as strong contenders both domestically and internationally.
With this announcement marking a new chapter for Inter Miami and MLS, fans eagerly await what promises to be an exciting tournament next summer.
