The wait is finally over. This Saturday, the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 will kick off with its opening match. At Hard Rock Stadium, Inter Miami and Al Ahly will face off in a crucial clash that could set the tone for their push to qualify for the Round of 16.
This showdown wonât just draw the eyes of millions of fans around the globe because of the tournamentâs significance and Lionel Messiâs presence on the pitch. It also carries major implications for both clubs, given the competitiveness of the group and the tournamentâs short format, which leaves little margin for error.
Inter Miami and Al Ahly are part of Group A in the Club World Cup. The Herons secured their place in the tournament as representatives of the host nation after winning the Supportersâ Shield last season. The Egyptian side booked their ticket by winning the CAF Champions League in 2021, 2023, and 2024. Group A also includes Porto and Palmeiras.
What happens if Inter Miami win?
If Inter Miami come away with a victory in their opener against Al Ahly, theyâll earn 3 points, move to the top of the Group A standings (at least temporarily, possibly tied with Palmeiras or Porto), and take a big step toward advancing to the Round of 16. In fact, if the Herons want to keep their chances alive to move on, this looks like a must-win game.

A detailed view of the Club World Cup trophy.
Based on the pedigree and current form of the groupâs four teams, Porto appear to be the favorites to take the top spot. Palmeiras, current leaders in the Copa Libertadores, are seen as the other strong contender. That leaves Inter Miami and Al Ahly needing to win this head-to-head matchup and hope to pull off a result in one of their remaining two games.

see also
What country is Al Ahly from? A look at Inter Miamiâs group stage rival at FIFA Club World Cup 2025
What happens if Inter Miami and Al Ahly tie?
If Saturdayâs match at Hard Rock Stadium ends in a draw, Inter Miami and Al Ahly will each earn one point. Their position in the Group A standings after Matchday 1 will then depend on the outcome of the game between Porto and Palmeiras. Still, a tie is not an ideal result for either side, since both would still have to face the two toughest opponents in the group.
What happens if Inter Miami lose to Al Ahly?
If Al Ahly manage to secure a win on Saturday, Inter Miamiâs outlook in Group A would become extremely complicated. They would drop to last place in the standings, and their next matchâThursday vs Porto at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlantaâwill be against what looks like the strongest team in the group. Another loss there to the Portuguese side could mean Lionel Messiâs team would be eliminated from the Club World Cup before even reaching their third match.
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