As anticipation builds for a high-profile showdown between Egyptian giants Al Ahly and MLS powerhouse Inter Miami in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, both teams are expected to field strong lineups packed with international talent and star power.
Al Ahly Team News & Predicted XI
Al Ahly enter the tournament with a fully fit squad, giving head coach Jose Riveiro plenty of options. Their attacking reinforcements are particularly noteworthy: Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” returns after a stint with Trabzonspor, while Zizo, a standout performer for Zamalek and Egypt, joins on a free transfer.
The Egyptian champions are expected to deploy a familiar 4-3-3 formation, featuring a blend of experience and creativity across all lines.
Al Ahly predicted XI (4-3-3):
El Shenawy (GK) — Hany, Ibrahim, El Aash, Kouka — Attia, Ashour, Reda — Trezeguet, Wessam Ali, Bencharki
Another possible variation could see a more defensive setup:
Alternate XI: El Shenawy; Hany, Rabia, Ibrahim, El Debes; El Solia, Ashour, Attia; Mohamed, Trezeguet; Abou Ali
Notable Squad Members:
- Goalkeepers: El Shenawy, Makhlouf, Shobeir
- Defenders: Ibrahim, Hany, El Aash, Kouka, Debes
- Midfielders: Ashour, Attia, Zizo, Dieng
- Forwards: Bencharki, W. Ali, Trezeguet
Inter Miami Team News & Predicted XI
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano is expected to maintain his side’s structured 4-4-2 formation, relying on the legendary pairing of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez up front.
However, the Herons are dealing with a few fitness concerns. Goalkeeper Drake Callender is sidelined with a hernia, while veteran Jordi Alba and defender Gonzalo Lujan remain injury doubts.
Despite those setbacks, Inter Miami will likely roll out a star-studded lineup designed to dominate possession and press in the final third.
Inter Miami predicted XI (4-4-2):
Ustari (GK) — Weigandt, Falcon, Lujan, Allen — Allende, Cremaschi, Busquets, Segovia — Messi, Suarez
If Ustari is ruled out, Rocco Rios Novo or William Yarbrough could step in between the posts.
Notable Squad Members:
- Goalkeepers: Ustari, Rios Novo, Yarbrough
- Defenders: Allen, Falcon, Martinez, Weigandt
- Midfielders: Busquets, Cremaschi, Segovia, Allende
- Forwards: Messi, Suarez, Picault
Final Thoughts
This clash between the African and North American titans promises to deliver fireworks, with world-class playmakers like Trezeguet and Messi poised to lead their sides. With both clubs eyeing Club World Cup glory, their opening lineups could prove decisive in setting the tone for the tournament ahead.
