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Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Lionel Messi is fit to play against Porto in the Club World Cup, despite showing discomfort in training.
Lionel Messi is one of the stars to watch out for at Club World Cup. (Picture credit: AP)
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano assured that Lionel Messi would be fit to play against Porto at the Club World Cup on Thursday, despite showing some discomfort during training.
A video surfaced showing Messi touching his left leg during Wednesday’s session, but Mascherano confirmed the veteran forward was ready for Miami’s second Group A match in Atlanta.
“On the trip from Miami to Atlanta I saw that came out in some places, but Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session,” Mascherano informed reporters.
“He was touching his leg, sometimes people touch themselves, but there’s no problem, he’s fit and obviously he will play tomorrow.”
The coach also mentioned that Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, Jordi Alba, was available after missing the opening 0-0 draw against Al Ahly due to injury.
“We’ll evaluate what’s best for us, if he starts or not,” said the coach. “Actually, I already know but I won’t tell you.”
Mascherano highlighted that retaining possession would be crucial against Porto, regular Champions League participants who are expected to challenge the MLS team significantly.
“We have players who feel much more comfortable when they’re in possession, dominating, and controlling the game through the ball,” stated the Argentine.
“Of course, we’re facing a team that is also used to playing that way and are a high-level side.
“But on the pitch we’re 11 against 11, we’ll try to shut down their strengths, expose their weaknesses, and aim for a great game to achieve a good result.”
Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets, who was part of Spain’s 2010 World Cup-winning team and a former Barcelona teammate of Messi, acknowledged the challenge ahead at the Mercedes-Benz stadium.
“They have very good players, they have reinforced, and we know it will be very difficult,” Busquets told reporters.
“They are a team that competes every year for their league, against other great teams like Sporting and Benfica.
“We will try to be as solid as possible, stick close together, and do our best as a team.
“If we get chances, we have the individuals (who can finish them), but above all, we have to be solid and keep a clean sheet.”
With AFP Inputs
- Location :
Atlanta, GA (US)
- First Published:
