Inter Miami take on Porto in a crucial Matchday 2 clash at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, with both clubs seeking their first win of the tournament. Following a series of draws in the group’s opening round, the standings remain wide open. That makes Thursday’s showdown a potential turning point in the race to reach the knockout stage.
For Miami, the pressure is mounting. After a scoreless draw against Al Ahly, they now face a Porto side that also failed to collect three points in its opener. A win would not only provide a needed boost to their campaign but also increase their chances of advancing to the Round of 16 in FIFA’s revamped tournament format.
Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed his starting lineup ahead of kickoff, and one of the most notable omissions is Spanish veteran Jordi Alba. The former Barcelona star, who has played a key leadership role since arriving in MLS, is not part of the starting XI against the Portuguese side.
Alba has been managing a hamstring injury and remains in recovery. While not ruled out entirely for the tournament, the 35-year-old defender has not yet returned to full match fitness. Mascherano and the medical staff appear to be taking a cautious approach, with the possibility of using Alba as a late substitute if necessary.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates with Jordi Alba #18
Inter Miami confirmed lineup
Head coach Javier Mascherano is going to keep the faith in his attacking duo of Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez. Although they failed to find the net against Al Ahly, Inter Miami entered the tournament with strong attacking form and remain a threat going forward.
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Sergio Busquets will once again anchor the midfield alongside Benjamin Cremaschi , who continues to attract attention from clubs abroad. However, Jordi Alba remains sidelined with a hamstring injury, while Yannick Bright and Gonzalo Luján are also unavailable. Miami’s confirmed starting XI: Ustari; Weigandt, Falcón, Fray, Allen; Allende, Cremaschi, Busquets, Segovia; Messi, Suárez.
What happens if Inter Miami beat Porto?
A win for Inter Miami would place them in a strong position heading into the final round of group play. While three points wouldn’t secure qualification outright, it would give Miami a significant edge—especially if the match between Al Ahly and Palmeiras ends in a draw. With every team currently sitting on one point and no goals scored, the group remains entirely level.
In this scenario, Inter Miami would benefit from a stalemate between their two group rivals, keeping the table tight and reducing the risk of a runaway leader. That would set up a high-stakes final match against Palmeiras, widely considered the toughest opponent in the group. The key for Miami would be to enter that clash with momentum and minimal pressure.
