"May think they're a weaker opponent... they're not" - Inter Miami boss on Al-Ahly ahead of Lionel Messi led side's Club World Cup clash
Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano has claimed that his team is confident ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup. However, the Herons are not underestimating other teams as their first opponents, Al Ahly, would also come prepared.
Inter Miami will face Egypt's Al Ahly in the Club World Cup opening game on Saturday, June 14, at the Hard Rock Stadium. Currently riding a three-match unbeaten streak after a 3-0 loss against Orlando City last month, Mascherano believes that his team can compete with any other side in the MLS.
However, he also acknowledges that the level of the Club World Cup is higher, and they can't call Al Ahly weak. The Argentine tactician told Ahram Online in a post-match press conference (via Soccer Laduma):
"This victory shows us that if we stay brave and composed, we can compete with any team, especially in MLS."
"But the Club World Cup is a different level. The competition is much tougher, and I must be realistic, including Al Ahly. People may think they're a weaker opponent, but I'm telling you, they're not. Far from it. We'll compete, stay true to ourselves, and not fear mistakes. We have to keep pushing forward," he added.
The Herons are drawn in Group A of the club tournament alongside Al Ahly, Palmeiras and Porto.
Al Ahly star reveals plan to stop Inter Miami and Lionel Messi in Club World Cup opener
Al Ahly defender Karim Fouad has revealed his side's plan to stop Lionel Messi and Inter Miami in the FIFA Club World Cup. The Egyptian giants will face the Herons in the tournament opener on June 14.
Ahead of the game, Karim Fouad told Btolat that his side will leave their fate to God. The Egyptian defender believes that his team has top-level players who can give winning performances at the Club World Cup.
While dubbing Lionel Messi a football icon, Fouad also claimed that his side is capable of producing big results. He said (via Soccer Laduma):
"Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, is a football icon - but we trust in God and leave our faith in his hands."
"We've got a solid quad, with top-level players in every position, we're capable of achieving something big. We expect to deliver a performance that reflects the name and character of Al Ahly - and that wouldn't be a surprise," he added.
Al Ahly have won the CAF Champions League 12 times, making them the most successful club in the tournament's history. Additionally, they have also solidified their dominance in Egyptian football, winning the title eight times in the last ten editions.
