Lionel Messi Leads Inter Miami to Historic FIFA Club World Cup Qualification
Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, has earned a spot in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, a revamped 32-team tournament set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025. The tournament will feature top clubs from across the globe, with Miami hosting the opening match.
How Inter Miami Qualified
Instead of using the MLS Cup winner to determine the U.S. host club, FIFA awarded the berth to the MLS Supporters’ Shield winner, highlighting season-long consistency in the 34-game regular season. Inter Miami clinched the Supporters’ Shield with a record-breaking 74 points, surpassing the New England Revolution’s 2021 tally of 73.
Their dominant form was epitomized by a resounding 6-2 victory over New England, with Messi delivering a stellar hat trick in just 11 minutes.
FIFA’s Announcement
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised Miami’s achievement:
“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… you are deserved participants in the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025 as the host club representing the United States.”
Messi’s Impact on Inter Miami
Since joining Inter Miami midway through 2023, Messi has been transformative:
- 2023: Led Miami to a Leagues Cup title, showcasing immediate impact.
- 2024: Despite limited appearances due to injuries and national team duties, Messi scored 20 goals in 19 league matches, helping Miami clinch the Supporters’ Shield and the top MLS playoff seed.
Club World Cup History for MLS Teams
Inter Miami’s qualification marks only the second time an MLS club will compete in the Club World Cup. The Seattle Sounders previously participated in the 2022 edition after winning the CONCACAF Champions League.
The 2025 Club World Cup’s final spot will go to the winner of the Copa Libertadores final, scheduled for November 30, 2024, in Buenos Aires.
Looking Ahead
Inter Miami’s journey to the Club World Cup highlights Messi’s influence and the club’s rise as a competitive force. As hosts and participants, the team is set to showcase Major League Soccer’s growing stature on the global stage.
