FIFA reportedly concerned about 2025 Club World Cup opener between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami and Al Ahly

Lionel Messi is set to be part of Inter Miami‘s squad as they face Al Ahly in the opening match of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. However, just ahead of this pivotal clash, reports have surfaced suggesting FIFA has some concerns regarding this first matchup of the tournament.

The Club World Cup has been a hot topic over the past few years, generating significant buzz. With high anticipation surrounding the crowning of the first Club World Champions in July, discussions and apprehensions about the tournament have been rife on social media.

Amidst the chatter, a report from The Athletic has highlighted that FIFA is reportedly worried about the opening game between Inter Miami and Al Ahly, with the concern stemming from ticket sales figures.

With just days remaining until Messi and his teammates make their U.S. debut in this prestigious tournament, The Athletic revealed that only 25,000 tickets have been sold thus far. This accounts for a mere 38.7% of the available seats in Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium, which has a capacity of 65,328.

A detailed view of the FIFA Club World Cup trophy on display at BMO Stadium before the game between the Los Angeles FC and the Sporting Kansas City on June 08, 2025.

Ticket pricing strategies for Messi and Inter Miami matches

When The Athletic’s Adam Crafton reported on ticket pricing for matches featuring Messi and Inter Miami, he highlighted an intriguing trend. Crafton noted, “It was even suggested that tickets for the opening game were priced at less than $20.” In his pursuit of clarity, Crafton reached out to FIFA for confirmation. He reported that, “They insist this is false, stating the figure is ‘much higher,’ though they did not provide specific numbers.”

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Exploring the fluctuations in ticket prices, Crafton wrote, “For Inter Miami’s game against Al-Ahly, prices had dropped to just $55 on Ticketmaster, FIFA’s official platform for tournament ticket sales. This represents a 50% reduction from May prices.” Additionally, he observed, “In January, the cheapest seats were $230, and following December’s draw, they rose to $349.”

Significant reductions in global soccer event ticket prices

Other high-profile matches are experiencing similar ticket price reductions. Crafton pointed out that the highly anticipated clash between River Plate and Urawa Red Diamonds is now available for as low as $24.

“Games such as the one between European champions Paris Saint-Germain and Brazilian club Botafogo are being offered at $33 at the 90,000-capacity Rose Bowl in Pasadena,” Crafton remarked. This adjustment aims to address potential gaps in attendance and ensure robust crowd presence.