Messi vs. PSG: Clash of Giants in the Club World Cup Round of 16

Miami, USA – A clash of titans is looming in the Club World Cup, where Inter Miami will face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the round of 16. This encounter promises to be a crucible of emotions and reunions, highlighting the confrontation of Lionel Messi against his past and the reunion of the ‘Barça’ clan with their former mentor, Luis Enrique. Inter Miami, after a crucial draw against Palmeiras, prepares for this challenge. The American team was close to securing the lead in group A, leading by two goals until the 80th minute of the last match of the group stage. However, two goals from Palmeiras in the final minutes changed the course, relegating Inter Miami to second place due to goal difference.

Date and Venue of the Meeting

The much-anticipated match between Inter Miami and PSG is scheduled for June 29 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. This game will mark Messi’s first encounter with the Parisian team since he left France in the summer of 2023 to join the Florida team. Messi’s time at PSG was not the most successful, despite winning two French league titles, the team suffered two consecutive eliminations in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League. The PSG, for its part, arrives at the match under the direction of Spanish coach Luis Enrique, who took over the command the season following Messi’s departure. Enrique and Messi shared three years at FC Barcelona, forging a relationship that will now be seen on opposite sides of the field.

Reunions and Old Friends

In addition to Messi, Luis Enrique also coached Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, all currently at Inter Miami, during his time at Barça. Suárez expressed his respect for his former coach in the press conference after the match against Palmeiras, highlighting Enrique’s influence on his development.

I already had a competitive DNA, but he incited it more in me

Luis Suárez

Another key figure in this match will be Javier Mascherano, coach of Inter Miami, who will have the task of devising a strategy against his former coach. Mascherano described Luis Enrique as a friend and one of the best coaches he has had.