PSG x Inter Miami: Luis Enrique says “Now the real competition begins”
Paris Saint-Germain have booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup after a 2-0 win over Seattle Sounders. With the result, Luis Enrique’s squad topped Group B with six points and will now face Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami in a highly anticipated knockout match.
Luis Enrique: “Now the Real Competition Begins”
After the final whistle, PSG coach Luis Enrique spoke with confidence but emphasized that the true test starts now.
“We want to go as far as possible and we are ready. I think the players are ready too. Now the real competition begins, because it is going to be very difficult. We are motivated,” said the Spanish manager.
The match will also serve as a reunion between Messi and PSG, following his departure in 2023. The Argentine now leads Inter Miami, who advanced as runners-up in Group A after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Palmeiras.
When and Where?
- Date: Sunday, June 29
- Time: 1 PM (Brasília Time)
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
PSG’s Form So Far
PSG enter the knockout phase on the back of a perfect group stage:
- 2-0 vs. Seattle Sounders
- 1-0 vs. Al Ittihad
Luis Enrique’s men have shown strong defensive organization and tactical discipline, which they’ll need to maintain against Messi, Suárez, and the attack-minded Inter Miami squad.
A Potential Quarterfinal Against Flamengo?
The winner of PSG vs Inter Miami will likely face Flamengo in the quarterfinals, provided the Brazilian giants confirm their own advancement. That potential showdown would create another high-stakes, cross-continental clash between European and South American football.
Messi vs PSG: A Storyline to Watch
The match is being billed as one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament due to Lionel Messi’s history with PSG. The Argentine superstar played for the French club from 2021 to 2023, and now leads Inter Miami as they aim for a historic run in the competition.
“He recovered well,” said a PSG official, noting Messi’s recent fitness improvements after a minor knock earlier in the tournament. The stage is set for a headline clash.
