ATLANTA, GEORGIA – A highly anticipated fixture in the FIFA Club World Cup™ knockout stages is set to unfold today, June 29, 2025, as Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami CF faces off against French champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The critical last 16 encounter will take place at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, with kickoff scheduled for noon local time (16:00 GMT).
This match represents a significant test for both clubs and a spotlight moment for North American football, with Inter Miami carrying the banner as the sole United States representative remaining in the prestigious global tournament.
Road to the Last 16
Inter Miami’s path to this stage was marked by resilience and a notable upset. Having navigated the group stage, the Florida-based side secured their place in the knockout rounds following a dramatic run. Their qualification was sealed after a hard-fought 2-1 victory against Portuguese giants Porto, a result that sent ripples through the competition, followed by a determined 2-2 draw with formidable Brazilian club Palmeiras. These performances underscored Miami’s capability to compete with established international powers and set the stage for their clash with the Parisian powerhouse.
Paris Saint-Germain, entering the tournament as one of Europe’s premier clubs, brings a squad replete with international talent. Their presence in the last 16 was widely expected, positioning them as formidable opponents for any side, including an in-form Inter Miami.
Team News and Squad Updates
Both clubs arrive in Atlanta with varying levels of squad availability and fitness concerns, critical factors that could influence the tactical approach and outcome of the match.
For Inter Miami, there is positive news regarding the return of veteran Spanish defender Jordi Alba. Alba has recovered from injury and is now in contention for a starting spot, challenging young prospect Noah Allen for the left back position. However, the team still faces several key absences. Goalkeeper Drake Callender, defender Gonzalo Lujan, and midfielder Yannick Bright remain sidelined due to injury. Veteran goalkeeper Oscar Ustari is expected to continue filling in for Callender between the posts, providing experience in a crucial area.
Paris Saint-Germain also has injury considerations. French forward Ousmane Dembele has reportedly resumed training after recovering from a hamstring injury. While his return to training is a boost, it is considered very unlikely that Dembele will feature in the starting lineup for this crucial match, suggesting a cautious approach to his reintegration into the squad.
The Messi vs. Enrique Reunion
Adding a compelling narrative layer to this encounter is the reunion between Inter Miami’s global superstar Lionel Messi and PSG coach Luis Enrique. The two shared a hugely successful period together at Spanish club Barcelona, where Enrique managed a side featuring Messi that achieved numerous domestic and European triumphs, including a treble in the 2014-2015 season.
This match marks the first time Luis Enrique will face his former captain and star player from opposite dugouts in such a high-stakes competitive fixture. The tactical battle between Enrique, known for his intense, pressing style, and Messi, arguably the game’s greatest player, will be a fascinating subplot for analysts and fans alike. It adds a personal dimension to the corporate clash between two global football brands.
Anticipation Builds in Atlanta
The selection of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, as the venue underscores the growing prominence of the United States as a host for major international football events. The stadium is expected to provide an electric atmosphere for this knockout tie, drawing fans eager to witness top-tier club football featuring some of the sport’s most recognizable figures.
The stakes are clear: victory propels the winning team into the quarter-finals of the FIFA Club World Cup™, continuing their pursuit of global club supremacy. Defeat means elimination from the tournament. For Inter Miami, a win would solidify their status as a legitimate force on the international stage and mark a historic achievement for an MLS club. For PSG, it’s an essential step in meeting the high expectations placed upon them as one of Europe’s footballing elite.
As noon local time (16:00 GMT) approaches today, June 29, 2025, all eyes will be on Atlanta as Inter Miami and Paris Saint-Germain write the next chapter in the FIFA Club World Cup™, pitting North American ambition against European pedigree.
