Inter Miami and Lionel Messi are eager to face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Club World Cup. According to Coach Javier Mascherano, Messi's previous bad experience with PSG could provide strength and inspiration for their match in Atlanta on Sunday (Monday in Manila). He said, "It's better if Leo has anger, because when he wants to prove something, he fights harder."
Miami made a surprise qualification in Group A after beating Porto and drawing with Palmeiras and Al Ahly. Despite being underdogs, they are ready to give it their all. Mascherano said they need a "perfect game" to have a chance of winning against a new-look PSG under Coach Luis Enrique.
Messi shared that his two years in Paris were not happy. “I didn't enjoy it. It was hard for me in training and games every day. It was hard to adjust,” said the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. But now, he is happy to play in the United States.
On the other hand, Messi and his former teammates like Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba will face their former coach at Barcelona, Luis Enrique. Alba said, “For me, he is the best. I am excited to see him, but when the game starts, it is a fight.”
Suarez also shared his respect for Enrique. “He and Maestro Tabarez were the most important coaches in my career. He taught me how to move without holding the ball. I owe him a lot.”
Mascherano, now coach of Inter Miami, is still friends with Enrique. But in the match, he said, “I hope luck will be on our side.”
