soccer

Lionel Messi could surpass Ronaldo in another feat at FIFA Club World Cup with Inter Miami

With Inter Miami officially confirmed to play in the FIFA Club World Cup, Lionel Messi has the chance to overtake Cristiano Ronaldo in yet another record.

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October 20, 2024 02:53PM EDT

**© Megan Briggs/Getty Images**Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami reacts during the first half of the game against the Philadelphia Union

Following Inter Miami’s 6-2 victory, highlighted by a hat trick from Lionel Messi, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that the Herons will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup as the host team. This tournament presents Messi with an opportunity to surpass Cristiano Ronaldo in another notable achievement.

Ronaldo currently holds eight appearances in the FIFA Club World Cup—six with Real Madrid and two with Manchester United—accumulating seven goals and three assists. However, this year, the Portuguese star won’t be able to extend his tally, as Al Nassr did not qualify for the competition.

Meanwhile, Messi has played five Club World Cup matches, all with Barcelona, and has tallied five goals and one assist. With his participation this year with Inter Miami, Messi has the potential to not only improve his stats but also surpass Ronaldo’s record.

Messi eyes fourth Club World Cup title

Messi is set to return to the Club World Cup for the first time since 2015. While this year’s edition will introduce a new 32-team format, the Argentine icon hasn’t featured in the tournament since his club success at the continental level slowed.

Lionel Messi of Barcelona controls the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup Final match between Santos and Barcelona. Lintao Zhang/Getty Images

Messi previously appeared in the competition three times, all with Barcelona, after winning the UEFA Champions League on three occasions. In all three Club World Cup appearances (2009, 2011, and 2015), Messi lifted the trophy and scored in every edition.

With hat-trick for Inter Miami, Messi repeats impressive feat Ronaldo has yet to achieve

Confirmed clubs for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup

CONMEBOL: Palmeiras (BRA), Flamengo (BRA), Fluminense (BRA), River Plate (ARG), Boca Juniors (ARG), and the 2024 Copa Libertadores champion.
UEFA: Chelsea (ENG), Real Madrid (ESP), Manchester City (ENG), Bayern Munich (GER), PSG (FRA), Borussia Dortmund (GER), Porto (POR), Inter Milan (ITA), Atlético Madrid (SPA), Benfica (POR), Juventus (ITA), Red Bull Salzburg (AUT).
CAF – Africa: Al Ahly (EGY), Wydad Casablanca (MAR), Esperance de Tunis (TUN), Mamelodi Sundowns (RSA).
AFC – Asia: Al Hilal (KSA), Urawa Red Diamonds (JPN), Al Ain (UAE), Ulsan Hyundai (KOR).
CONCACAF: Monterrey (MEX), León (MEX), Pachuca (MEX), Inter Miami (USA) Seattle Sounders (USA).
OFC – Oceania: Auckland City (NZL).

Gianni Taina

Gianni Taina is a bilingual journalist, fluent in English and Spanish, with a specialization in soccer, the NBA, and tennis. He began his professional career in 2020 with Mundo Deportivo US, where he first established himself as a writer. Throughout his career, Gianni has covered major sports events such as the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the NBA Finals, and Grand Slam tournaments like the French Open. His ability to report on real-time events and perform well under pressure has made him a valuable member of a top-tier team of journalists. In 2024, he joined Bolavip US, where he now covers a wide range of sports, including European soccer, MLS, and the NBA.