Group A will be hoping to kick into gear on Matchday 2 after a goalless first round, meaning Inter Miami and Porto are chasing their first victories of the tournament when they meet on Thursday.
Messi fever swept over Miami for the Club World Cup opener last weekend, but the Herons were mightily fortunate to escape their duel against Al Ahly with a point. While the all-time great Argentine attempted to come to the fore late, it was Messi’s compatriot, Óscar Ustari, who stole the show.
The Inter Miami goalkeeper made a string of excellent saves and denied Trézéguet from the penalty spot to ensure his side didn’t begin their campaign with a defeat. However, they now face an uphill battle to progress into the knockout rounds, with fixtures against Porto and Palmeiras upcoming.
Miami were aided by Porto’s stalemate against the Brazilians, with the majority of European teams likely to take some time to click into gear this summer. The Portuguese side, who endured a disappointing 2024–25 season, were second-best in their opening round stalemate.
Only the brilliance of back-up 'keeper Cláudio Ramos between the posts ensured a vibrant Palmeiras were kept at bay.
Here is guide to the game.
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